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BIOGRAPHIES

STATE OFFICERS

Thirty-Third General Assembly

ILLINOIS.

ID.

CONTAINING BIOGRAPHICAL, SKETCHES OF THE GOVKRNOK AND OTHER STATE

OFFICERS, AND KACH SENATOR AND REPRESENTATIVE IK THB

TIIIUTY-THIRI) GENERAL ASSEMBLY.

Springfield, Illinois:
THE BIOGRAPHICAL PUBLISHING COMPANY.

1883.

Entered according: to Act of Congress, in the year 1882,

BY

D. LYMAN PHILLIPS and FRKKMAN E. HUDDLE,
In the office of the Librarian of Congress at Washington.

.

PREFACE.

In the preparation of this work, much difficulty has been
experienced on account of its novelty and the erroneous impres-
sion that whatever might be said in praise of the subjects
presented, would be construed as- having been written by them-
selves. Such is not the case, and, after many trials and
tribulations, resulting from our own inexperience in soliciting,
and from the diffidence and discourtesy of a few members of
both branches of the Assembly, wre now have the pleasure of
submitting our work. We should have been pleased to embody
within this volume the biographies of the Judicial Department
of our State Government and the various boards and commissions
in charge of the charitable, agricultural and reformatory institu-
tions of the State ; but limited time prevents the consummation
-of our desire. We hope to see our initial volume meet with
approbation; but it is human to err, and, although no time or
pains has been spared in the preparation of our work, we shall
be most agreeably disappointed, if it proves to be absolutely correct
in every part. We have endeavored to make this album of
sketches a valuable, handsome and interesting volume. How
well we have succeeded, is left to the judgment of its readers.
To the daily papers of Springfield, we extend our thanks for
numerous favors. We are under special obligations to the STATE
.JOURNAL and ODD FELLOWS' HERALD for the privileges of access
to their files, for valuable information, and kindly notices of the
progress of our labors. Hoping that our days of hardship and
nights of waking have not been in vain, and that this book will
be accepted as the honest wrork of honest men, who have
employed no misrepresentations to attain success, we leave it to
its office, with kind regards for our liberal and numerous patrons.

'SPRINGFIELD, ILL., MARCH 10, 1883.

THE BIOGRAPHICAL PUBLISHING CO.

THE CAPITOL BUILDING.

After a spirited contest over the location of the State Capital,
the erection of the State House was begun in 1867, in the city
of Springfield. The site is a gentle elevation, located between
Second and Spring streets and South of Monroe, its northern
boundary.

The ground plan of the structure is in the form of a Greek
cross, 366 feet in length, exclusive of porticos, and 296 feet wide,
from point to point on the cross. The style of architecture is a
mixture, in which the Corinthian predominates. The material,
of which the outer walls are constructed, is smoothly dressed,
drab-colored stone. The building proper is three stories high,
including the basement, which is twenty-one feet in height, from
the ground to the water-table. The first story above the base-
ment, which is termed the Executive floor, is thirty-three feet
high. At the extremities of the main wings, are lateral wings,
or extensions, in the form of a " T." At these extreme points
another story is superadded, having a mansard roof and dormer
windows. The cornices are massive and ornate. The height of the
building, from base to cornice, is ninety-eight feet; and, from the
cornice to the apex of the dome, two hundred and sixty-six feet.
The total height is three hundred and sixty-four feet. The Capi-
tol of the State of Illinois is said to be higher than any other
building on the continent, except Trinity Church, in New York
City. Our engraving shows three porticos, projecting from the
main entrances on the North, East and South, a distance of
twenty-two feet each. These are, as yet, unfinished, and the
symmetrical appearance of the building is very much impaired
by their non-existence. The cornices and capitals of the columns
for these porticos are finished and ready for mounting. It is to
be hoped that the next general election will provide means for
the completion of these necessary appendages to the structure.
Not only are these grand porticos necessarey to the harmonious

6 THE CAPITOL BUILDING.

appearance of the building; but they are demanded for the pro-
tection of the entrances and gables. The entrances, being very
spacious, are much exposed.

The building contains no less than two hundred and thirty-six
windows, of heavy, plate glass; the inner doors at each of the-
three main entrances are also of heavy plate, and these, together
with the sky lights, make a total area of 2,284 square feet of
lighting surface. The building is said to be the best lighted of
its size in the whole world. The total area of roofing is 59,800
square feet. The structure contains 2,000,000 feet of stone and
22,000,000 brick.

The great dome consists of three sections or stories; the first
forming the base; the second, the main stem, and the third con-
stitutes the arched crown, which is surmounted by a smaller
dome, termed the "lantern," from the popular supposition that it
is intended for an electric light. Between the windows and con-
stituting a portion of the massive walls, are immense columns
or pillars, resting upon heavy bases and surmounted by ornate
capitals. The cornices and friezes, at the gables, are of richly
carved stone, the design of which materially relieves the struc-
ture from an appearance of over massiveness. The east ap-
proach to the building, (the only one now completed), consists of
terraces, each of which contains a flight of steps seventy-six feet
and ten inches in length. The whole is flanked, at either side,,
by a panneledwall of stone, capped with a heavily moulded raiL
The general appearance of the structure, upon its exterior, is
striking owing to its magnitude. Although impressed with its
colossal proportions, the beholder is deceived so much by the har-
mony of its various features, that he does not realize its great
extent, in all its fullness, until he is within its walls. The hall-
way, leading from its main entrance, is thirty-one feet wide; its
floor consists of mosaic work in white and colored tiling. As
you enter, you are confronted by a life-size statue of Lincoln on
the left, and one of Douglas on the right. Both are mounted
upon appropriate pedestals. The wainscotting of the hall and
corridors is of highly polished marble, in long panels, which are
alternately arranged according to color. At intervals of about
twenty feet, along the hall, are tall .pilasters of dark red mar-
ble, paneled and ornamented in the center with green marble

TIIK CAPITOL BUILDING. 7

discs, and, at the ceiling, with foliated capitals. The ceilings
are decorated with cornices and foliated center pieces in plaster
of paris.

Upon the right, as one enters the main hall, are the Governor's
rooms and Executive Chamber, the walls of which are frsscoed
in the highest style of the art, the work about the casings being
painted in soft tints, which lend to the«e apartments an air of
rare elegance. Upon the opposite side of the hall are the offices
of the Secretary of State. These rooms are finished in white-
oak, cherry and walnut, so arranged that they produce a rich
contrast. At the west end of the main hall is the grand stair
way, consisting of five easy flights of granite steps, and guarded
by marble balustrades. The wainscotting of the walls about
the stairway is paneled in white, grey and black marble. The
corridors above and on either side are flanked by tall columns of
mottled granite, which support the roof and an arched sky-light
of ground and stained glass. The corridor, running through the
building from North to South, is in finish similar to the main
hall, and is probably the longest passage-way in any building in
the United States.

Commencing at the North end of the corridor, the first office
on the right is that of the State Auditor. The main room of
this office is the most spacious of any of the office rooms upon
the executive floor. The ceiling is lofty and decorated with a
deep cornice and foliated center pieces in plaster of paris, and
supported in the center by two fluted columns. The wood-work
is of walnut and ash. The offices on this floor are similar in
decoration and finish, and the above description will suffice for
all. Opposite the Auditor's office is the Department of Agricul-
ture, divided into four compartments. Some of the plaster-
work represents the cereals grown in this State, and heads of na-
tive animals, and is very appropriate. The museum in this de-
partment is very complete and excellently arranged. The office,
next the Auditor, is that of the State Treasurer. It is finished in
keeping with its character. Opposite the treasury is the office
of, the State Board of Charities. South of the main hall, on the
right, is the Department of Justice, embracing the Supreme and
Appellate court rooms. The former is the most richly finished
and artistically frescoed room in the building. The figures, em-
ployed by the artist, are e nblematic of the uses to which the

8 THE CAPITOL BUILDING.

room is put, and are executed in the finest style of the art. It is
said that no other court-room in the United States is equal to it
in its appointments. Opposite these rooms are the State Library
and the Index Department of the office of the Secretary of
State, and, at the extreme south end of the corridor, .on the left,
is the office of the State Superintendent of Public Instruction.
The second story contains the Senate Chamber and Hall of the
House of Representatives and their corridors, galleries, stair-
ways and committee-rooms, cloak-rooms, closets, etc. The Sen-
ate Chamber occupies the north wing, the Hall of the House
being located in the south wing. Both are flanked by inner cor-
ridors, separated from the halls by ground glass partitions, some
eight feet in height. The chambers are lighted by sky-lights of
stained glass, surrounded by beautiful bas-relief work in white
plaster. From their high ceilings depend beautiful chandeliers,
hung with prisms and clusters of crystals which give a rich ef-
fect by gas-light.

The interior of the great dome towers in naked, raw and un-
finished glory above the head of the beholder, and, to the dis-
grace of the voters of Illinois, proclaims, that the elegant finish
and polished beauty of the corridors and stairway, below, are
but roseate paths to a cupola resembling a ventilator in a first-
class barn, in its labyrinth of scaffolding and walls of naked
brick. The bas-relief work and statuary for its decoration are
completed, and only need an appropriation to put them in place
and surround them with a finish of plaster and paint, which
would render the dome a thing of beauty to endure forever.
No one, who has ever visited this most substantial and elegant
structure will ever again vote against an appropriation for its
completion.

It is now provided with the electric light, with which its cor-
ridors and dome are brilliantly illuminated each evening.

An elevator runs from the basement to the legislative floor.

JOHN M.HAMILTON

STATE OFFICERS.

HON. JOHN M. HAMILTON,

GOVERNOR OF ILLINOIS.

John M. Hamilton was born in Union County, Ohio, on May
•28th, 1847. In 1854, he came, with his parents, to Illinois, where
he worked upon his father's farm until sixteen years of age, when
the promptings of patriotism caused him to enlist in the army.
Young as he was, it is said of him that he was a brave and
capable soldier — one who neither shrank from danger or faltered
in the hour of peril. After the war, in 1865, he entered the
^Vesleyan University, at Delaware, Ohio, where he was graduated
with honor in 1868. In 1869, he located at Bloomington, Illinois,
where he began reading law. During one year of his course, he
was Professor of Languages in the Illinois Wesleyan University.
He completed the necessary course of study in 1870, and was
admitted to the bar. He soon afterward formed a partnership
"with Captain J. H. Rowell, the firm continuing in business until
Tiis accession to the office of Governor, in 1883. The firm is well
known to the Illinois bar, and its extensive and lucrative practice
is the best possible testimonial of its ability and energy. Mr.
Hamilton has always been a close student, and is one of the most
brilliant lawyers of his age, in the West. His knowledge of the
statutes of Illinois is said to be almost phenomenal. In addition
to his legal accomplishments, he possesses a very fine vocabulary,
an excellent voice, and a most laudable fund of general informa-
tion. He is truly a scholar, as well as a lawyer and statesman.
He has always been an ardent Republican in political belief
and practice, and entered the arena of State affairs as a Senator
from the Bloi mington District, in 1876, defeating his opponent
by a majority of 1,640 votes. His triumph in the election was
but the foundation for one of the most substantial testimonials of
public regard, ever bestowed upon a young man by the State

10 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

Senate of Illinois. His energy, knowledge of parliamentary
practice, and dignified bearing won for him the unqualified
esteem of the party of which he was one of the most active
representatives, and the good will and personal regard of the
opposition, during the session. He assiduously addressed himself
to the responsible duties of his position, and was instrumental in
securing the passage of some of the most important measures of
the session. He introduced and procured the adoption of the
bill creating Appellate Courts, and w£s the anthor of the bill,
which created and defined the duties of the State Board of Health.
Both of these measures have proven to be very beneficial to the
people and the State. The act establishing the State Militia and
providing for its government, owes its existence, in a great
measure, to his skill as a parliamentarian, during the celebrated
struggle over its passage in the Senate. In the organization of
the Thirty-first General Assembly, he received such a testimonial
of the regard of his party, as seldom falls to the lot of one of his
age — a unanimous nomination for President pro tempore of the
Senate. He was elected by the full party vote and that of Senator
Artley, an independent member. He discharged the duties of
his high office so well, that he received the commendation of the
members of the Senate, without regard to party lines. He made
a brilliant and successful canvass for the office of Lieutenant-
Governor, in 1880, and served as such until the resignation of
Governor Cullom, in February, 1883, when he became Governor
of the great State of Illinois, by virtue of the provisions of the
constitution, at an earlier age than any of his predecessors. Mr.
Hamilton retired from his presidency of the Senate amid the
universal regret of his peers, who testified their sorrow at losing
his valued services, and, at the same time, their joy over his
promotion to the chief executive office, by appropriate resolutions
introduced by the Hon. Thomas E. Merritt, the recognized leader
on the Democratic side of the Senate, and adopted by a unanimous,
rising vote. The writer occupied a position in the gallery of the
Senate Chamber, during the transaction of the business pertaining
to the resignation of the gavel by Governor Hamilton, and the
silent attention and profound solemnity of the occasion will not
soon be forgotten. During the delivery of his address, the Lieu-
tenant Governor's usually oratund voice was modified by the sol-
emn circumstance of parting, so far as former relations were

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 11

concerned, and, at times, there was a faltering, suggestive of the
deep emotions of his great heart, wrought by the change in
official station, which was so soon to be consummated. His
inaugural address was brief and simple, and showed conclusively
that he had an adequate sense of the weight of the duties, which
he was then about to assume, as Governor. He retired from the
Chamber, and, ere we could reach the Executive Office, had
taken the oath and received the congratulations of his numerous
friends. There was no pomp or tinsel connected with the great
event, and, a few hours later, Governor Hamilton's attention was
engrossed with the business of his new and exalted station. He
is not addicted to ambition for empty fame, nor does he fret
beneath the honors of his position. His highest aim is the honest
discharge of duty, and no man can labor more diligently to attain
the goal of his desires, than he has done, and is now doing.

HARRY F. DORWIN,
GOVERNOR'S PRIVATE SECRETARY.

Mr. Dorwin, eldest son living, of Phares A. and Caroline
Dorwin, was born in Springfield, Illinois, August 4th, 1855, and
has always resided at the Capital. His education was acquired
in the public schools of his native city, and his attainments are
an endorsement of their excellence. After leaving school he
entered the employ of the State National Bank, of Springfield,
but, in July, 1876, after a service of five years, he was obliged to
leave that institution on account of failing health. When
Governor Cullom took possession of his office, he tendered Mr.
Dorwin a position, which he accepted and continued to fill during
Governor Cullom's entire term of six years. When Governor
Hamilton succeeded to the office of Chief Executor, on February
5th, 1883, he appointed the subject of this sketch, as his Private
Secretary, Avhich position he now holds.

LOUIS C. KERRELL,
ASSISTANT SECRETARY AND STENOGRAPHER.

Mr. Ferrell was born in Marion, Williamson County, Illinois,
in 1855, his father being a farmer. His father enlisted in 1861,
in the 31st Illinois Regiment, and was killed at Atlanta, Ga.,

12 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

July 21st, 1804. -Louis was educated in the public schools of
his county until he was ten years of age, and attended college at
'Carbondale for six months, in 18(59. He worked on a farm iintil
1872, when he learned telegraphy at St. Louis, and was employed
by the Illinois Central Railroad in 1882, the last four years as
Ticket Agent and Manager of the W. U. Telegraph Office at
Carbondale. Ill 1882, he was appointed to his present position
•by Governor Cullom, beingr e-appointed by Governor Hamilton,
upon his accession to the office in February, 1883. Mr. Ferrell
is an Odd Fellow, and has secured a position in the War Depart-
ment at Washington, where he will have entered upon the
performance of his duties, ere this book is published.

FRANK Y. HAMILTON,
GOVERNOR'S ASSISTANT SECRETARY.

Mr. Hamilton was born December 27th, 1862, at Richmond,
'Ohio, and removed, with his parents, to Illinois in 1854, where
he worked upon a farm until 1866, when his mother died, and
the family became scattered, but was re-united by the second
marriage of his father, in 1869. Mr. Hamilton's education was
acquired at the Wesleyan University, at Bloomington, 111., and
by a three years collegiate course at Adrian, Michigan, where he
was graduated. From that time until 1881, he taught school.
He then began reading law in the office of Rowell and Hamilton,
at Bloomington. He is a Presbyterian and Mason. As may
have been inferred by the reader, Mr. Hamilton is a brother of
the Governor.

HON. HENRY D. DEMENT,

SECRETARY OF STATE.

Mr. Dement was born at Galena, Illinois, October 10th, 1840,
bis father and mother being natives of Tennessee and Missouri,
respectively. The subject of our sketch began his course of
study in the common schools of Dixon, Illinois, and afterward
pursued it in Rock River Seminary, Mt. Morris, 111., a Catholic
School at Sinsinawa Mound, Wisconsin, and a Presbyterian
College at Dixon, Illinois. At the commencement of the war,
he had not yet completed his course in the latter institution, but

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES! 13;

he enlisted in the Union Array, and was commissioned as Second.
Lieutenant of Company "A," Thirteenth Illinois Volunteer
Infantry. On the succeeding day, he received his commission as.
First Lieutenant of his company. He was actively engaged in,
the battles at Arkansaw Post and Vicksburg, and, for gallantry,
was brevetted Captain, retaining that honor until the close of the-
war. He served with Generals Fremont and Curtis,. throughout
their campaigns west of the Mississippi River; was with Sherman,
at the time of his defeat at Chjckasaw Bayou; accompanied
(inint on his march to the rear of Vicksburg,. and. was engaged:
in the principal assault made upon that Confederate strong-hold,
throughout the siege. He also«assisted in the capture of Jackson,
Mississippi. After the war, he became a member of the firm of
Todd and Dement, plow manufacturers, at Dixon, where he was
engaged in the manufacture of flag bagging, for the protection
of cotton bales, at the time of his election to his present office,
in 1880 — in fact, is now largely interested in the same industry.
He was married to Miss Mary F. Williams, of Castine, Maine,
October 20th, 1864, and five children were born to them> three
of whom, all daughters, are now living. Mi*. Dement is an Odd
Fellow. In political faith he has ever been a Stalwart Repub-
lican, and was honored by his party by being elected to the lower
house of the Twenty-eighth and Twenty-ninth, and to the Senate
of the Thirtieth and Thirty-first General Assemblies. In 1880,
he was elected Secretary of State, and has ever since performed
his duties with a remarkable degree of accuracy and dispatch.
He is a man of great force of character, and is generally admired
and esteemed.

JAMES H. PADDOCK,
CHIEF CLERK, OFFICE OF SECRETARY OF STATE.

Mr. Paddock was born at Lockport, Will County, Illinois,
May 29th, 1850. He was educated in the public schools of Kan-
kakee, and became a Page in the State Senate of Illinois in 1865.
In 1867, he was Assistant Postmaster of the Senate. In 1869-
71-73-75, he was Assistant Secretary of the Senate, and Secre-
tary in 1877, 1879 and' 1881, being employed in the office of the
Grain Inspector at Chicago, in the intervals between sessions.
June 1st, 188,1, he- wag appointed. Chief Clerk, in the office of the-

14 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

Secretary of State, by Mr. Dement. He was married at Kanka-
kee to Miss Mary L. Crawford, October 9th, 1873. His father
was a member of the Constitutional Convention of 1862, and
Lieutenant Colonel of the One Hundred and Thirteenth Illinois
Regiment of Infantry, and died at the hospital in Memphis,
Tennessee, in 1863, from disease contracted during the siege of
Vicksburg. The subject of this sketch and his wife are both
members of the Episcopal Church. Mr. Paddock was Secretary
of the Railroad and Warehouse Commission from July, 1876,
to January 1st, 1877, and a clerk in the United States Marshal's
office from January 1st, 1877, until January 1st, 1879. He is ac-
curate and swift in the performance of clerical work, and is
much esteemed by those with whom he is and has been as-
sociated.

CAPTAIN JOHN M. ADAIR,
CHIEF CLERK IN THE DEPARTMENT OF INDICES AND ARCHIVES.

Mr. Adair was born in Franklin County, Pennsylvania, May
llth, 1840, his father being a farmer. When eight years of age
he came, with his family, to Carroll County, Illinois. His edu-
cation was acquired in the common schools of Pennsylvania and
Illinois. At the age of seventeen, he began clerking in a store,
following that occupation until 1861, when he enlisted as a pri-
vate in Company "E," of the Forty-fifth Regiment of Illinois
Volunteers. He was promoted to First Sergeant in November,
1861. In December of the same year, he was promoted to the
Second Lieutenancy. He assisted in the reduction of Fort
Donelson and the battle of Pittsburg Landing. He was also
at the siege of Corinth. During General Grant's Mississippi
campaign, his command lived on ear corn for two weeks, three
ears being a ration. He was also at Vicksburg. He became
First Lieutenant during this campaign, and, the Captain having
been promoted to Major during the siege, Mr. Adair succeeded
him and became Captain of his company. In 1865 he resigned
on account of ill health, and soon afterward became Deputy Cir-
cuit Clerk of Carroll County. In 1867, he was Assistant Secre-
tary of the State Senate, and was one of the editors and pro-
prietors of the Gazette, Lanark, 111., from 1868 to 1871. In 1869
he was Enrolling and Engrossing Clerk of the State Senate.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 15

After leaving the Gazette, he became sole proprietor and pub-
lisher of the Mt. Carroll Mirror, conducting it until 1874, in
July of which year, he was appointed to take charge of the De-
partment of Indices and Archives in the office of the Secretary
of State. It is said that the index and reference system of Rec-
ords in Illinois is one of the best in the Union, and Captain
Adair is entitled to the honor of raising it to that standard.

JOHX C. HUGHES,
STATE PRINTER EXPERT.

Mr. Hughes is probably the hardest worked employe in the
service of the State. Upon him rests the responsibility of reading
the proofs and overseeing the entire work of the State Printer.
He is busy at all hours of the day, and, frequently, until late at
night. He is necessarily an experienced printer and a finely
educated man, in the practical fields of literature. When the
Legislature is in session, he has no time to rest or answer ques-
tions, and could not give us the information upon which to base
a sketch. We append his remarks :

" My life has been passed in Springfield, and has been utterly
uneventful. There is nothing in it from which to weave a
biography, as I am neither a statesman, politician or chronic
office-seeker. I therefore respectfully decline the honor of a
historical sketch."

He is a very agreeable man and a perfect gentleman. He is a
member of the Order of Odd Fellows.

PALMER ATKINS,
STATE PROOF READER. -

Mr. Atkins was born at Rome, New York, August 28th, 1841,
his father being a manufacturer of stoves. lie came to Chicago
in 1856. He was educated in the ward schools of New York
City. In 1858, he located at Dixon, Illinois, his present home.
He followed the printing business at Dixon until his enlistment
in the army in 1861. He served at Military Headquarters of
General Curtis for some time, and was detailed to publish a
Union newspaper known as the Shield, at Helena, Arkansas,

16 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

which he did from August to December, 1862. He then served
at Gen. Grant's headquarters until the latter was transferred to-
the East, when he went to the headquarters of Gen. Thomas, at
Chattanooga, by Gen. Grant's recommendation. He served the-
remainder of his term at Gen. McPherson's headquarters, where
he was in the Postomce Department. He then resumed the
printing business, at Dixon, until 1876. In 1881, he was
appointed State Proof Reader, by Secretary of State Dement.
He is an Odd Fellow and Republican.

D. EDITH WALLBRIDGE,
ASSISTANT STATE LIBRARIAN.

Miss Wallbridge was born in Erie County, Pennsylvania,.
October 2d, 1854, her father, Wing K. Wallbridge, being a farmer.
In 1857, Mr. Wallbridge removed to Iowa, with his family,,
where he died in 1869. Edith was educated at Hillsdale
College, Michigan, where she was graduated in 1878. She then
removed to Hoopestan, Illinois, where she resided until appointed
to her present position by Secretary of State Dement, in 1881.
She is a member of the Free Will Baptist Church. Miss Wall-
bridge is a well educated, accomplished and estimable young
lady, who is thoroughly conversant with the magnificent State
Library.

WILLIAM E. SAVAGE,
CHIEF JANITOR OF THE STATE HOUSE.

Mr. Savage was born in Whitesboro, Oneida County, New
York, in 1845. His father was a merchant. The family came
to Knox County, Illinois, in 1855. The subject was educated at
Champlain Academy, in Clinton County, New York. He re-
moved to Whiteside' County, Illinois, in 1861, where he resided
until appointed Chief Janitor of the State House, in 1881, a
position which carries with it a greater weight of responsibility
than one might at first suppose. He has been an ardent Repub-
lican ever since he became a voter. He is a member of the
Congregational Church, and the Ancient Order of United Work-
men. He is trustworthy and faithful in every respect, and fully
worthy of the confidence reposed in him.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 17

ANDREW WALKER,
STATE HOUSE ENGINEER.

Mr. Walker was born on the Isle of Man, in 1840, his father
being a manufacturer. He came to this country when Andrew
was but a year and a half old, locating at Elmira, New York.
His literary education was acquired prior. to attaining his tenth
year, in the common schools of New York State. He went to
New Orleans when quite young and served as a striker and
engineer on a steamboat until the war began, when he came
North and enlisted in the 39th Illinois Regiment, serving for
three years. He then served as a locomotive engineer until ap-
pointed State House engineer — nine years ago. He is thorough-
ly familiar with his business, and is a very reliable man. He is a
member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and Ancient
Order of United Workmen, and has always been a Republican.

JOSEPH E. WOODS,

STATE HOUSE CARPENTER.

Mr. Woods was born at Knoxville, Frederick County, Mary-
land, in 1834, his father being a blacksmith by trade. Mr.
Woods received his education in a private school and learned his
trade in his native State. In 1855, he removed to Ohio, and
came to Springfield, 111., during the next year. He was married
to Miss Sarah E. Morse, of Springfield, in 1857. His wife died
in 1860. He served three years as a private in Co. "C," 124th
Illinois Volunteer Infantry, being mustered out of the service at
Chicago in 1865. Most of his service was in the Mississippi
campaigns, under Generals Logan and VcPherson. In 1867 he
was again married, linking his fortunes with those of Miss
Esther Thompson, of Morris County, New Jersey. • He removed
to New Jersey in 1870, returning to Springfield in 1873. He
worked upon the State House under the commissioners, and was
appointed to his present position by the Secretary of State in
1877, and re-appointed by Mr. Dement in 1881. He has charge
of all repairs and improvements, and is a very superior workman.
He is a Republican arid Odd Fellow, being a Past Grand and
Past Chief Patriarch in that order.

18 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. JOHN CORSOX SMITH,

STATE TREASURER.

Mr. Smith was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, February
13th, 1832, to parents of Scotch and English extraction. He re-
ceived a very good English education and served an apprentice-
ship to a carpenter and builder. Upon attaining his majority,
he left home and spent a year in Xew York City and Cape May,
when he came West, locating at Galena, Illinois, where he pur-
sued his trade and erected some of the most valuable and sub-
stantial buildings in the city. In 1859 he entered the employ of
the government, as Assistant Superintendent of the erection of
the Custom House Building at Dubuque, Iowa. In 1862, im-
pelled solely by patriotic motives, he entered the army as pri-
vate in Company "I," Xinety-sixth Illinois Infantry Volunteers,
was elected Captain and subsequently elected Major by a vote of
the rank and file of his regiment. His regiment was ordered to
Cincinnati, in October of the same year, to defend that city
against an attack of the Confederates, which was then imminent.
He participated in the second battle at Fort Donelson, at Frank-
lin, etc. He was soon afterward assigned to duty upon the staff
of Brigadier General Beard, of the Regular Army, where he-
served with distinguished ability and bravery, until transferred
to the staff of Major General Steedman, under whom he partici-
pated in the battles at Chicamauga, Lookout Mountain and Mis-
sion Ridge, where he was commissioned Lieutenant Colonel in
recognition of his heroism and eminent services, being highly
complimented by Generals Steedman and Granger. After the
army had fallen back to Chattanooga, he was assigned to the duty
of planting batteries upon Moccasin Point, immediately under
the guns of Longstreet, on the mountain, which task he ac-
complished so successfully that when morning dawned and these
batteries opened fire, the Confederate guns were soon silenced
and those who manned them, driven from their position. At
his own request, Colonel Smith was now relieved from staff duty
and placed in command of his regiment, participating in the
action at Buzzards' Roost. He was subsequently placed in com-
mand of the post and made president of a board of claims at
Cleveland, Tennessee. He participated in all of the important
battles of the Atlanta cam] aign, until that of Kenesaw Moun-

^ y s?

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 19

tain, where he was severely wounded while commanding a
brigade in repelling a night assault. Though suffering from his
wound, he returned to the field in October of the same year,
and participated in the Battle of Nashville, after which he was
assigned to duty as the president of a court-martial, and, after-
ward, of a military commission at Nashville, where he remained
until the close of the war. He was brevetted Colonel for gal-
lantry, by President Lincoln, afterward promoted to the full
rank of Colonel, and, in June, 1865, brevetted Brigadier Gen-
eral by President Johnson, for " meritorious services." After
the war, General Smith was appointed Chief Grain Inspector for
the city of Chicago, where he now resides. He was one of the
Centennial Commissioners of Illinois, and was elected State
Treasurer on the Republican ticket in 1878, and again in 1882.
He is a ma-n of strong character and great popularity. In per-
son, he is tall and finely formed; dignified, yet courteous and
polite in bearing, and obliging, generous and noble in natural
impulse. He is a man of unsullied reputation and unquestioned
integrity, firm and accurate in judgment, and deliberate in
speech and execution. He is a Past Grand M aster, Past Grand
Patriarch, Past Grand Representative, and at present Grand
Scribe of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and a Thirty-
third Degree Free Mason, in which order he is also a Past Grand
Commander of the Knights Templar.

JOHX T. PETERS,
CHIEF CLERK IX THE STATE TREASURY.

Mr. Peters was born in Greene County, Illinois, June 20th,
1844, his father being a farmer. The family came to Springfield
in 1848, and Mr. Peters received his education in the public
schools of the Capital city and the old Mechanic's College. He
was a dry goods clerk five years, connected with the Wabash
Ticket Oih'ce a year, Cashier of the United States Mustering
Office during the war, and Teller of the Marine Bank in 1864,
several years. While in the bank he was elected City Treasurer
of Springfield, being one of the first Republicans ever elected
to office in Sangamon County. He was Chief Clerk of the
Auditor's Office under General Lippincott, eight years, came into
the Treasury under Rutz, having been Chief Clerk, and was

20 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

retained by General Smith; again became Rutz's Chief Clerk,
and is now occupying the same position 'under Smith for the
second time. He has always voted the straight Republican
ticket, and is excellently qualified for the onerous and responsible
duties of his office.

HON. CHARLES P. SWIGERT,

STATE AUDITOR.

Mr. Swigert was born in Baden, Germany, in November, 1843,
and came with his parents to the United States when but nine
years of age. In 1854 the family located upon a farm in Kan-
kakee County, Illinois, where Charles worked in summer and
attended school in winter, until seventeen years old. He had
begun supporting himself by driving oxen at four dollars per
month, when but twelve years of age, receiving an advance of
two dollars per month the second year, and another two dollars
advance the third year. During these three years he is said to
have assisted in plowing over four hundred acres of raw prairie
lands. In 1861 he volunteered as a private in Company "H,"
of the Forty-second Illinois Infantry. He was one of Captain
Hottenstein's twenty picked sharp-shooters who rendered such
efficient service by running the gauntlet at Island No. 10, on
board the " Carondalet," thus opening the river to Memphis,
previous to the Battle of Pittsburg Landing. During the siege
of Corinth, Mississippi, May 9th, 1882, his right arm was struck
by a solid, six-pound shot, which carried away all of that part of
the limb between the shoulder and elbow, except a shred of skin
by which the hand remained suspended from the shoulder.
Seizing the stump of his arrn^ firmly with the remaining hand,
he saved his life by compressing the arteries sufficiently to pre-
vent rapid hemorrhage. No one was near him, and he was
compelled to walk three-quarters of a mile, when he was placed
in an ambulance, and, after the team had run away, during which
time he was obliged to continue the compression upon the
wound, was at last cared for in the hospital. After three weeks
treatment of the remains of that amputated member, he was
sent to the Jefferson Barracks, Missouri, and afterward to Quincy,
Illinois, where he was discharged in December, 1862. After his
discharge he pursued a course of study in the Bryant and Stratton

/ J^^^^^Cf^^/f

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 21

Business College, then taught two terms of school in Kankakee
County, after which he became a letter carrier in the postoffice
at Chicago, following that business until 1866, when he became
Deputy County Clerk of Kankakee County. He passed the
school years of 1867-8 and 1868-9 in the Soldier's College at
Fulton, Illinois. He was a Stalwart Republican, and was elected
County Treasurer of Kankakee County in 1869. He was re-
elected five times in succession. In November, 1880, he was
elected to the office which he now occupies, for a term of four
years, from January 10th, 1881. In 1869 Mr. Swigert was married
to Lavina L. Bigelow, who was born in Vermont. They have a
family of four sons. Mr. Swigert is a very generous, obliging
and popular gentleman, and an efficient and honest officer.

WILLIAM II. HENKLE,
CHIEF CLERK, AUDITOR'S OFFICE.

Mr. Henkle is a native born capitalist — that is to say, he was
born at the State Capital, May loth, 1853, his father being a
Carriage Manufacturer. He resided in -Decatur, Illinois, from
the time he was two years old until he became fourteen, being
educated in the public schools of that city. Upon his return to
Springfield, he worked in his father's paper mill, at Riverton,
two years, when he became a clerk in the store of Woods &
Henkle, one of the oldest clothing firms in Central Illinois,
serving four years, when he was appointed to a clerkship in the
State Auditor's .Office by. General Lippincott, in 1873. He has
been Chief Clerk since Mr. Swigert's accession to the office. He
was elected Secretary of the State Board of Equalization in 1881,
and still holds that office, also. He says that his ancestors have
very strong symptoms of Republicanism from the organization of
the party, and they are not modified in him by any means.

JOHN J. BRINKERHOFF,
CHIEF CLKRK, INSURANCE DEPARTMENT, AUDITOR'S OFFICE.

This gentleman was born at Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, his
father being a farmer. The subject of our sketch received his
education at a college at his birth-place, graduating in 1869, in
the fall of which year he earne to Springfield, and, with the

22 BIOGRAPHICAL (SKETCHES.

exception of a portion of two years, passed in law school at
Albany, New York, has resided in that city ever since. He was
a clerk in the Auditor's Office from 1869 until 187-2, and after the
completion of his legal studies, he resumed his station. He was
appointed to his present position by Auditor Needles, in 1879,
and has been retained in it ever since. He is a Captain in the
Illinois National Guard, having held that position since 187s.
His society membership is confined to a collegiate society of
Greek Letters. He has always been a staunch Republican.
Captain Brinkerhoff is a very careful and competent gentleman,
who is well adapted to the responsible duties of his position.

ALONZO MCLAUUIILIX,
CLERK MUNICIPAL INDEBTEDNESS DEPARTMENT, AUDITOR'S OFFICE.

Mr. McLaughlin was born at Herkimer, New York, in the year
1839. He says his father was a Scot and his mother a Knicker-
bocker. His father was a farmer by occupation. When but one
year of age, his parents removed to Burlington, Wisconsin. Mr.
McLaughlin received a liberal education in the High School at
Racine, Wisconsin, read law with Wentworth & Smith, and was
admitted to the bar in 1868. He practiced his profession at
Harvard and Woodstock, Illinois, at the same time editing and
publishing a newspaper at the former place. He had previously
practiced at Geneva, Wisconsin. Being a writer of considerable
ability, he was soon engaged in political and general correspond-
ence for numerous well known journals, His power as an
organizer and canvasser is recognized by his party friends. He
was elected Secretary of the Railroad and Warehouse Commis-
sioners in 1873, and since 1877, has occupied his present position
in the State Auditor's Office. He now resides in the Capital City.

HON. HENRY RAAB,

STATE SUPERINTENDENT OF Plin.K I NSTKUOTIOX.

Mr. Raab Avas born at Wetzlar, Rheinish Prussia, in 1837,
his father being a currier, tanner and dealer in leather. His
education was acquired in the Kindergarten, common schools and
Royal Gymnasium College, of his native city. He was graduated
in a scientific course from thj last named institution, with the
class of 185:'), after having carefully studied the Latin, English

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 23

and French languages. He came to the United States during
the same year, and engaged in business in Cincinnati, later in St.
Louis, and, afterward, became Assistant Teacher in the public
schools of Belleville, this State. He was soon afterward made
Principal of the Grammar School of that city, during the incum-
bency of Mr. James P. .Slade, his predecessor in office, as
Superintendent of the Belleville Schools. Mr. Raab had taken
particular pains to inform himself in the various branches of
study employed in our schools, and familiarized himself with the
text books and methods in use. He has always been an active
worker in educational conventions and institutes, striving for the
advancement of national methods of instruction, and laboring to
increase facilities for the improvement of teachers, and to pro-
duce the more beneficial results to be expected from their labors.
In 1874, Mr. Raab founded the Belleville Kindergarten, now a
flourishing institution, one in which he feels a great sense of
pride. His connection with the Belleville Public Schools has
endured for a quarter of a century, and he has been Librarian
of the Sangerbund Library for twenty-three years. He is an
ardent Democrat in politics, and was elected to his present office
over Charles T. Strattan, of Mt. Vernon, by a majority of 2,869,
in 1882, although the State is largely Republican. He will reside
in Springfield during his term of office, and the citizens of the
Capital will accept him as a learned and most valuable acquisi-
tion to society. Mr. Raab is one of the most thoroughly educated
and substantially well informed men in the State, and his election
to the all-important offices of which he is now the incumbent,
was a stride in the direction of practical measures for educational
reform. Being a gentleman of great intellectual power and
polished education, his term of office cannot but prove both sat-
isfactory and profitable to the schools of one of the greatest
States in the LTnion. He is a man who will not hesitate taking
up arms against all of those antiquated methods and fogy
practices which have been a retarding influence in our educa-
tional affairs far longer than is consistent with the age of
progress in which we live. With him, precedent is no guide,
unless founded upon incontrovertible reason, and the fact that a
given theory has long been accepted, Avithout question, does not
establish its correctness unless there be a more rational foundation
for it than mere public acquiescence.

24 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

MR. WILLIAM L. PILLSBURY,

CHIEF CLERK OF THE OFFICE OF STATE SUPERINTENDENT OF PUBLIC

INSTRUCTION.

Mr. Pillsbury was born at Derry, New Hampshire, November
4th, 1838, his father being at that time a farmer. He w^nt to
Andover, Massachusetts, in 1856, where he was prepared for
college, at Phillips' Academy, and entered Harvard University
in 1859, graduating in 1863. During the latter year he came to
Illinois; taking charge of the model school in connection with
the State Normal University at Normal. He retained that posi-
tion for seven years, when he engaged in real estate and insur-
ance business in Bloomington, and later in Springfield. In 1879,.
Superintendent Slade appointed him Chief Clerk in the office of
State Superintendent of Public Instruction, and he was re-ap-
pointed by Mr. Raab in 1863. He is a gentleman of fine literary
attainments, well suited to the position which he now occupies
under Mr. Raab, and fully worthy of association with him in
the educational affairs of the State.

HON. JAMES MCCARTNEY,

ATTORNEY GENERAL.

The subject of this sketch was born in Perry County, Penn-
sylvania, February 14th, 1835. When James was about five years
old, the family moved to Lawrence County, in the same State,
and to Trumbull County, Ohio, about 1848. In 1857, they came
to Illinois, locating at Monmouth. Mr. McCartney was educated
in the common schools, principally ; but attended the Western
Reserve Seminary, in Ohio, one term. He began reading law in
the office of Hon. Matthew Birchard, at \V~arren, Ohio, in 1856,
and completed his course in the office of Harding & Reed, Mon-
mouth, Illinois, in 1858, when he was admitted to the bar. He
enlisted as a private in Company "D," Seventeenth Illinois Vol-
unteer Infantry, April 19th, 1861, and was afterward commis-
sioned First Lieutenant. He resigned in April, 1862 ; but
re-enlisted in September following, as First Lieutenant of Com-
pany "G," One Hundred and Twelfth Illinois Volunteer Infantry,
and was promoted to the Captaincy in April, 1863, serving in
that capacity until mustered out, July 10, 1865. He was Acting

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 25

Assistant Adjutant General of the Third Brigade of the Third
Division, of the Army of the Ohio, from August, 1863, to May,
1864. He belongs to no church; but is a member of the Grand
Army of the Republic and the Ancient Order of United Work-
men. After the war, Mr. McCartney located at Fairfield, Wayne
County, Illinois, where he entered upon a succt ssf ul and profita-
ble practice of his profession, which continued until his election
to his present office, in 1880. He yet claims and recognizes that
place as his home, although he has temporarily resided at the
Capital, since entering upon the duties of his office. He is, and
has ever been a staunch and unyielding Republican. He never
held any civil office prior to his election as Attorney General, in
November, 1880. At the polls, on that occasion, he defeated
Hon. Lawrence Harmon, the Democratic candidate, by a majority
of 42,112 votes. Mr. McCartney is an able lawyer, and a good
natured, polite and obliging gentleman.

ELBERT S. SMITH,
ASSISTANT TO ATTORNEY GENERAL.

Mr. Smith was born at Twinsburg, Summit County, Ohio,
March 8th, 1847. His boyhood was passed upon a farm. He is
a graduate of Willoughby College, Willoughby, Ohio, where he
received the degree of Bachelor of Arts. He came to Illinois in
1869, locating at "Champaign, where he read law with Thomas
J. Smith, Esq., being admitted to the bar in 1874, and practicing
his profession in Champaign County until appointed Chief Clerk
in the office of Attorney General McCartney, in January, 1881.
Mr. Smith is a Free Mason and has always been a pronounced
Republican. Since his appointment he has been a resident of
the Capital City. Mr. Smith is a very capable and, industrious
lawyer, and is an intellectual ornament to the responsible position
which he now holds.

GILBERT L. MILLER,
ATTORNEY GENERAL'S SECOND ASSISTANT.

Mr. Miller was born on a farm near Canton, Illinois, June 8th,
185u, and educated in the common schools of his native county,
after which he began reading medicine, at the age of eighteen,

26 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

with G. W. Wright, a skillful surgeon of Canton. He attended
•one course of lectures, supporting himself meanwhile by teaching
school in Winter. At the end of three years he espoused the
law, reading in the office of an attorney, and teaching school in
winter, as before. He entered the newspaper business in 1877,
continuing until 1880, when he and a younger brother established
a law office in Mills County, Iowa. Several months after, Gilbert
left his brother in charge of the business and returned to Canton,
where he remained until appointed to his present position, in
December, 1882. He was married to Miss Eldora F. Slocum in
1878, and she died in December of the following year. November
19th, 1881, he married Miss Cora B. McCartney, daughter of the
Attorney General. Mr. Miller is a Republican and Free Mason,
but belongs to no church.

GEN. ISAAC H. ELLIOTT,

ADJUTANT GENERAL.

This gentleman is the son of a farmer. Indeed, among all of
the prominent men mentioned in this work, there are few who
are not. He was born in Bureau County, Illinois, in 1837, and
his home is still on a farm near Princeton, in his native county.
His education was acquired in the district schools of his county,
by a two years' course of study at Knox College, Abingdon, Illi-
nois, and a four years' course at Michigan University, from which
he was graduated in 1861. He entered the army as Captain of
Company "E," Thirty-third Illinois Regiment of Volunteers,
served in that capacity two years, when he was promoted to
Major, and, afterwards, to Lieutenant Colonel. He was brevetted
Colonel soon afterwards, and, a little later, became Colonel of
his regiment. He retired, after five years of service, brevetted a
Brigadier General. In politics, he has ever been a staunch and
unyielding Republican, and, as such, has served one term as
Treasurer of his native county. With this exception he had de-
voted his attention to farming since the war, to the time of his
appointment as Adjutant General of the State, by Governor Cul-
lom, in 1881. Mr. Elliott is a brave and experienced soldier, of
rare ability and tact. Entering the army at the age of twenty-
four, and being rapidly promoted from one position to another,
until he was a brevet Brigadier General, before attaining his

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 27

thirtieth year, his military record stands v/ith few parallels in
brilliancy. He certainly is well qualified to control the military
affairs of the State of Illinois. His administration of his office
has been characterized by zeal and good judgment, as well as
fearlessness and impartiality. Upon attaining the office, he
found that more companies had been organized than the law per-
mitted, and cut down the number accordingly. He also reduced
the force of officers, in order to render the service more effective
and less expensive,- and while he expresses regret that the neces-
sity for such action should exist, he applied the pruning knife
freely and judiciously. The militia of our State is in better
condition now than ever before, and much of the improvement,
if not all, is due to his untiring efforts to render the service
efficient.

PROF. AMOS H. WORTHEN,

STATE GEOLOGIST.

This well-informed and eminently scientific gentleman was
born at Bradford, Vermont, October 3 1st, 1813, his father having
been a farmer by occupation. The subject of our sketch was
•educated in the common schools of his native town, and Bradford
Academy ; but has probably acquired more knowledge by a
course of careful reading and scientific research, than from his
advantages in schools. In 1-834, Mr. Worthen removed to Har-
rison County, Kentucky, where he taught school one year, at the.
end of which time, he located at Warsaw, Illinois, his present
place of residence. After coming West, he became interested
in the geology of the country, and studied it diligently and thor-
oughly. His opportunities for observation were excellent, and,
taken in connection with untiring investigation, have rendered
him a gentleman of preeminent qualifications for his scientific-
duties, as State Geologist. He was Assistant State Geologist of
Illinois in 1851, under Dr. Norwood, the first man who ever filled
the office in this State. He also served two years as Assistant
State Geologist of Iowa, under Prof. Hall, the first officer of the
kind in that State. In 1858, Governor Bissell appointed Mr.
Worthen as Dr. Norwood's successor, and he had charge of the
geological survey of Illinois, the official report of which is now
-deemed so valuable by scientists. Mr. Worthen is a straight

28 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

Republican in politics, and has never voted a Democratic ticket
in his life. He is a truly scientific gentleman, excellently adapted
to the position which he has ably filled for so many years.

HON. ETHAN A. SNIVELY,

CLERK OF THE SUPREME COURT, CENTRAL GRAND DIVISION.

The subject of this sketch was born in Cuba, Fulton County,
Illinois, February 17th, 1845, his father being a merchant. His
grandfather was an accomplished German arid English Scholar,
and was one of the Pioneers of Ohio. The father died in 1860,
having held numerous and prominent positions as a Democrat.
The mother died in 1879, both she and her husband closing their
eyes in death, in the house where Ethan's first opened in life.
The education of the subject was acquired in the common schools
of his native village. His father desired to have him pass
through a collegiate course and become a lawyer, but Ethan
declared that he preferred to learn the printer's trade, and, 1m
father consenting, he pursued it at Havana, commencing as
" devil " at the age of fifteen, and becoming a full fledged jour-
neyman at Canton. In 1866, he began publishing the Times at
Rushville, Illinois, but soon sold it, having made it a success.
He then established the Galesburg Times and soon sunk $3,000
in the enterprise. He edited the Pekin Times three months,
and, in 1869, took the city editorship on the Peoria Daily Dem-
ocrat, serving several years, during which he reported the
proceedings of the Constitutional Convention of 1870, and the
Twenty-seventh General Assembly. He was in charge of the
Macoupin Enquirer from 1871 to 1877. It will be observed that
Mr. Snively has kept up with the times, except during his resi-
dence at Galesburg, where the Times went down, but he still
kept up. He was married to Miss Kate M. Dubois in 1876. She
is a scion from one of the most prominent families in the State,
and the union has proven fruitful of happiness to both parties.
In 1878, Mr. Snively was elected Clerk of the Supreme Court
for the Central Grand Division, as a Democrat, by a majority of
6,000, over four competitors. He is a most efficient officer, and
a man of fine literary attainments and great political influence.
He took editorial charge of the Macoupin Herald in 1879, and,,
during the same year, was elected President of the Illinois Press
Association.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 29

HON. GEO. W. JONES,

CLERK OF APPELLATE COURT, THIRD DISTRICT.

Mr. Jones was born in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1827, his
father being a baker by occupation. The subject of this sketch
came to Illinois in 1831, locating in Pike county, where he re-
sided at the time of his election to the office which he now fills.
His education was acquired in the common schools of Illinois.
Mr. Jones is a Democrat, "boots, breeches and all," and is re-
garded as one of the prominent men in his party in Central
Illinois. He has been actively engaged in politics for many
years, and was elected Clerk of the Circuit Court of his county,
in 1860, serving until 1864. In 1869, he again entered the office
as deputy, discharging his duties as such until 1872, when he was
again elected Circuit Clerk, which office he retained four years.
In 1878, he was chosen Clerk of the Appellate Court for the
Third District of Illinois, holding that responsible and honorable
position at present. He is a comely man, in person, and was
married in 1850, and now has two sons. Mr. Jones is deservedly
popular. His kind and obliging manner, and whole-souled dis-
position have made friends of most of his acquaintances, and
also many who have merely been brought into contact with him
by business relations.

OFFICERS OF THE SENATE.

HON. WILLIAM J. CAMPBELL,

PRESIDENT OP THE SENATE.

This, one of the most prominent and popular Senators of the
Thirty-third General Assembly, was born in Philadelphia, Penn-
sylvania, December 12th, 1850. His father is a farmer, and came
West with his family in 1852, settling in Cook County. Mr.
Campbell's education was acquired in the common schools and
Lake Forest Seminary, of Cook County, and the University of
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in which latter institution he re-
mained two years. By profession, Mr. Campbell is a lawyer,
having studied with W. C. Goudy, of Chicago, and admitted to
the bar in 1875. He was elected State Senator in November,
1878, and, in January, 1881, was chosen President pro tern, of
that body. He was, also, Chairman of the Congressional and
Senatorial Apportionment Committees. In 1882, Mr. Campbell
was again elected to the Senate, and was, a second time, chosen
President pro tern, of that body in January, 1883, becoming
President of the Senate and Acting Lieutenant-Governor by
operation of law, when Governor Hamilton was called to the
gubernatorial chair by the resignation of United States Senator
elect, Shelby M. Cullom. Mr. Campbell has taken a lively
interest in political affairs ever since attaining his majority,
having frequently been made a delegate of his party to County
and State Conventions, and having been one of the Illinois
delegates to the National Republican Convention which nomi-
nated Garfield, in 1880. His place of residence is Blue Island,
Cook County, Illinois. Mr. Campbell is tall and well propor-
tioned, rather fair in complexion, Avears no beard, and is pleasing
in both features and address. He is a man of more than
ordinary force of character. He has, both as Senator and pre-
siding officer, earned and received the confidence and esteem of
his fellow Senators.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 31

JOHN F. DEWEY.

John F. Dewey, Private Secretary for the President of the
Senate, was born at Geneva, Illinois, in September, 1856. His-
father, John H Dewey, was a physician and farmer by occupa-
tion, and was a native of Caldwell, New York. His mother,
Maria Butterworth, was born in Lincolnshire, England. He was
educated in the common school and printing office, having been
connected with the press of Kane County since 1869, as appren-
tice, journeyman printer, foreman and editor. In 1878-80 he
owned and edited the St. Charles Remew* Was census enumer-
ator in 1880; Senate Committee Clerk in 1881, and President's
Secretary in 1883. He has always voted the Republican ticket,,
and is a liberal in religion. Resides at Batavia, Illinois.

LORENZO F. WATSON,

SECRETARY OP THE SENATE:

This gentleman, was born September 26th,. 1850, in one of the-
suburbs of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. His parents were
Quakers in religion, and his father was a farmer by occupation.
In 1871, Mr. Watson came West, locating at Merom, Indiana 5
but, in 1877, he removed to Watseka, Illinois, where he now re-
sides. His education is collegiate, and it is one which honors
the man in a very great degree. He was graduated from the
Pennsylvania Normal, when but eighteen years of age. Mr.
Watson is a communicant in the Christian Church, an Odd Fel-
low and a prominent member of the Grand Lodge of Knights of
Honor of this State. His private business is that of an abstractor
of titles, and loan agent. During his residence at Merom, Indiana,.
Mr. Watson was Professor of Mathematics in the Union Christian
College, resigning his position in 1877, previous to his removal to
Illinois. He is a Republican in politics, and has held several public
positions of honor and trust, among which may be mentioned Al-
derman of the city of Merom, First Assistant Secretary of the
Senate of the Thirty-second General Assembly at its special ses-
sion, and Secretary of the Thirty-third General Assembly, his
present position. He was married in 1873; and has three chil-
dren. Mr. Watson is well adapted to the honorable position
which he fills with marked fidelity and ability. He is polite and
obliging in demeanor, and pleasing and generous in disposition ..

32 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

FREDERICK K. ROOT,

FIRST ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF THE SENATE.
Mr. Root was born in Chicago, in 1359, his father being a
lawyer and politician of some notoriety. In 1861, he removed to
the village of Hyde Park, where he now resides. He has a good
education, acquired in the common and high schools of Hyde
Park and the Chicago University. He also read law in his
father's office. He has been Deputy County Clerk of Cook
County, and was Secretary of the Committee appointed by the
National Committee of the Republican party, to arrange for the
convention of 1880. He is a member of the First Presbyterian
Church, of Hyde Park. He was born a Republican, and remains
one from choice. He was elected First Assistant Secretary of
the Senate in the organization of the Thirty-third General
Assembly. He is well qualified for his position and energetic
and accurate in the performance of his various duties. He was
married in August, 1881.

EDWARD E. MITCHELL,
SECOND ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF THE SENATE.

Mr. Mitchell was born in Williamson County, Illinois, where
he now resides, his father being a farmer and local politician of
considerable influence — one of the few Abolitionists of that
locality at the commencement of the war. His education was
acquired in the common schools of his native county. At four-
teen years of age, he was employed in the Postoffice at Marion.
He afterward served as Deputy Circuit Clerk of his county,
Assistant County Treasurer and Deputy County Clerk. He was
Postmaster of Marion for a short time, but resigned to resume
his position in the County Clerk's office. He is an Odd Fellow,
being a Past Grand in rank. In . politics, he has always been a
Republican. His former experiences adapt him to his present
position most admirably.

ROSAVELL W. GATES,
ENROLLING AND ENGROSSING CLERK, SENATE.

Mr. Gates was born at Antrop, Jefferson County, New York,
August 29th, 1834. His father came to Illinois with his family^
in 1838, locating at Aurora, Kane County, where our subject was

. BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 33

educated in the public schools. He has held numerous public
positions of honor and trust in his city and township. He has
spent two years of his life in California, where he cast his first
vote for General Fremont. Since that time he has been a con-
stant and active Republican. He is a member of the Free
Masons and Ancient Order of United Workmen. He is a United
States Commissioner in his city. He is a competent, genial,
affable and good-natured man — one who has many friends and
deserves them.

ROBERT W. WRIGHT,
FIRST ASSISTANT ENROLLING AND ENGROSSING CLERK, SENATE.

Mr. Wright was born at Belvidere, Illinois, July 19th, 1861,
and has but little more than attained his majority. His father is
a lawyer by profession, and Robert intends following in his foot-
steps, having been educated in the High School of his native
city, and the college at Champaign, Illinois, and being now en-
gaged in a course of study preparatory to his chosen calling.
He is a young man of decidedly Republican proclivities, is bright
and talented, and was honored with his present position in the
organization of the Senate. We commit him to the future, hoping
that some biographer of that period may be called upon to enroll
and engross his history upon the scroll of fame.

F. B. HITCHCOCK,
SECOND ASSISTANT ENROLLING AND ENGROSSING CLERK, SENATE.

Mr. Hitchcock was born at Terre Haute, Indiana, and came to
Illinois in 1866, locating at Louisville. He now resides at Flora.
He is. a graduate of the State University at Bloomington, Indi-
ana. By profession, he is a lawyer and journalist. He enlisted,
June 3d, 1863, his sixteenth birthday, in the army. He was cap-
tured at Red River, Tennessee, and paroled. He is a member of
the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and Ancient Order of
United Workmen. He has always been a staunch Republican,
and was made Second Assistant Enrolling and Engrossing Clerk
of the Senate, at its organization in 1883.

EDWARD I. BOIES,
BILL CLERK OF THE SENATE.

Mr. Boies was born February 19th, 1860, at Sycamore, DeKalb
County, Illinois, his father being a farmer. He was educated in

34 liioMRAPiiiOAi. SKETCHES.

the Seminaiy at Woodstock, Illinois, and graduated from the
Jacksonville, Illinois, Business College, in 1878. -By profession,
he is a rising young journalist. He is a Republican, by birth,
education and choice, and was elected to his present position in
the organization of the Senate, by a vote of forty-six to three.
Some future biographer will probably be called upon to notice
him at length, as his public career has just begun.

HON. PHINEAS W. WII.COX,
SERGEANT-AT-ABMS OF THE SENATE.

Mr. Wilcox is so well known to the people of Illinois, as the
"Mendota Carpenter," that scarcely more than the plain facts in
relation to his career is necessary. He was born in Belmont
County, Ohio, March 29th, 1835, his father being a farmer; but
afterward becoming a carpenter. The family removed to Jack-
son County in 1847, and, in 1855, the subject of our sketch located
at Fairfield, Iowa. His education was acquired in the log school
houses of his native State, and by a course of private study by
the light of a pine-knot torch. His political education, which
is, perhaps, as complete as that of any other man in Illinois, was
acquired from the careful study of public documents and his-
torical works, and the speeches of the great statesmen of our
country. By occupation, Mr. Wilcox is a carpenter, he having
learned that trade with his father, and worked in all of the prin-
cipal cities of the Ohio and Mississippi valleys, from Portsmouth
to New Orleans. In May, 1861, Mr. Wilcox enlisted in the army
and served until October, 1865. Three years of his war experi-
ence was passed in the Secret Service Department, one of the
most hazardous positions a soldier could occupy. His regiment
was the Fourth Iowa Cavalry. Mr. Wilcox is one of the most
eloquent orators in the ranks of the Republican party in Illinois,
and has contributed both time and talent to the success of recent
campaigns. He is a man of strong character and firm convic-
tions. He is a prominent Odd Fellow, He was Door-Keeper of
the House of Representatives in the Thirty-second General As-
sembly, and is Sergeant-at-Arms in the Senate of the Thirty-
third.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 35

MOSES W. BOBBINS,

FIRST ASSISTANT SERGEANT-AT-ARMS, SENATE.
Mr. Robbins was born in Davis County, Indiana, May 28thv
1828, his father being a farmer, who was a private soldier in the
war of 1812. Moses' education was acquired in the common
schools of Indiana, in the days of log cabin school-houses. Mr.
Robbins is a carpenter by trade, having served an apprenticeship
of three years, beginning in 1846, in Louisville, Kentucky. He
served during the late war in the Fifty-fourth Illinois Regiment,
entering the service as First Lieutenant and being mustered out
as Major. He was appointed First Assistant Sergeant-at-Arms
of the Thirty-third General Assembly, at the time of the organ-
ization of that body. He belongs to the Improved Order of Red
Men and Knights of Honor, and resides at Charleston, Coles
County, Illinois.

SIMON S. BARGER,
SECOND ASSISTANT SERGEANT-AT-ARMS, SENATE.

Mr. Barger was born in Pope County, Illinois, April 7th, 1844,
his father being a farmer. The subject now resides at Eddy-
ville, in the same county, where he is a Justice of the Peace,
having held that office for the last fourteen years. His educa-
tional privileges were limited to a short course of study in the
common schools of his county. He was First Sergeant of
Company "K," Fifty-sixth Illinois, during the war, and was
wounded in the thigh at the Battle of Corinth, and near the right
eye, in a skirmish near Ressacca, Georgia. He has four children,
and says his highest aim in life is to educate them properly. He
is an Elder in the Cumberland Presbyterian church, and an Odd
Fellow. He is a firm Republican and was elected at the organ-
ization of the Senate.

JAMES S. FREDERICK,
POSTMASTER OF THE SENATE.

Mr. Frederick was born August 25th, 1841, in Graf ton County,
New Hampshire. He worked at shoe-making, in Massachusetts,
until 1861, when he removed to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, pursuing
his trade in that city until August, when he enlisted in the First

36 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

Wisconsin Regiment of Cavalry as a private, serving until the
close of the war, during which he lost his left arm, when he
came to Paxton, Illinois, and was elected County Clerk of Ford
County, and re-elected at the close of his term. He has not been
a candidate for any elective office since. He has a good common
school education and is well qualified for the offices he has filled.
He was elected to his present position first, in 1881, again at the
special session of 1882, and, again, at the opening of the present
session. He is a Presbyterian and Odd Fellow, and an un-
swerving Republican. During his service he captured the horse
and equipments of J. F. Crow, the dreaded Guerilla, after kill-
ing him. When his arm was broken by a musket at West Point,
Georgia, he dropped his carbine and charged over the parapet
with the storming party, firing his revolver. He was brevetted
Captain for his bravery.

HENRY GINNETT,
ASSISTANT POSTMASTER, SENATE.

Mr. Ginnett was born at Aviston, Clinton County, Illinois,
February 17th, 1847, his father being a farmer. Henry's educa-
tion was acquired in the common schools of his native county.
In 1862, he enlisted in the Sixtieth Illinois, serving seven months,
when he was discharged, and re-enlisted in the One-hundred
and Seventeenth Illinois, serving in the capacity of a musician
until the close of the war. He is a farmer by occupation, an
uncompromising Republican in politics, and a member of the
order known as the Grand Army of the Republic. He was
elected to his present position in the organization of the Senate
of the Thirty-third General Assembly, and is well qualified for
the discharge of its duties.

JAMES M. BREWER,
SENATE MAIL CARRIER.

Mr. Brewer was born at Bloomington, Illinois, April 12th,
1840, his father being a boot-and shoe dealer, and dying when
James was three years old. The latter received a good common
school education, and entered the Wesleyan University, but was
obliged to leave it before graduating, on account of ill health.
He has served as Deputy Sheriff of his county, and was appointed

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 3T

to his present position in 1881, and, again, in 1883. Between
sessions he has been a member of the force of State House
janitors. He is a very trustworthy and assiduous man, and a
sound Republican.

LIST OF PAGES, SENATE.

ELMER R. McDowELL, President's Page, Chicago

OIPP M. BREWER, - Springfield

EDWARD S. DAY, - Springfield

ADELBERT FULLER, Springfield

ARTHUR H. GRACE, Mound City

WILLIAM L. HONNOLD, - Camp Point

JOHN MARTIN, - Springfield

IVAN L. THOMPSON, - Peoria

HERBERT E. TORRANCE, Pontiac

ERNEST E. WARREN, - Springfield

JAMES W. GUEST, Springfield

SENATORS.

HON. GEORGE E. ADAMS.

This scholarly and excellently informed gentleman was born
at Keene, New Hampshire, June 18th, 1840, his father being B.
F. Adams, a noted manufacturer. His education was acquired
at Exeter Academy, in his native State, the celebrated Harvard
University, and the Dane Law School, at Cambridge, Massa-
chusetts. He began his career, as a teacher, and followed that
occupation until admitted to the bar, when he entered upon the
practice of his chosen profession. In 1853, he came to Chicago,,
where he is now engaged in the practice of his profession — a
practice which any other member of the State bar might be ex-
cused for envying. In politics, he is a strong, active and zealous
Republican, one who advocates the cause of his party because he
believes that it is founded upon the basis of pure republicanism
in governmental principles, forms and affairs. He is a Unitarian
in religion. In 1880, his party honored him by electing him to
the State Senate, and, in 1882, he was elected to Congress from
the 6th, Chicago district. He was one of the hold-over Senators
under the law, and will probably resign his position in the State
Legislature, before this sketch is in print, in order to enter upon
his duties in Washington. He is said to be a very wealthy man,
and is undoubtedly one of the best parliamentarians in the State
Senate, if not in the entire Assembly. In person, he is tall and
well fonned, sedate, yet polite and obliging. He possesses a.
natural air of dignity, which creates a favorable impression — one
in marked contrast with the assumed gravity of some of the
members of this Assembly.

nio««APincAL SKETCHES. 39

HON. HENRY A. AINSWORTH.

This gentleman was .born at Williamstown, Vermont, Septem-
ber 28th, 1833. His father was a country merchant, when Henry
was born. In 1853, the subject of this sketch came to Illinois,
with his parents, who located in Henry County. His education
was acquired in the district schools and some of the best acade-
mies of his native State. Mr. Ainsworth became a dry goods
merchant at Geneseo, and followed that business for ten years,
when, in 1870, he removed to Moline, and invested in stock of
the Moline Iron Works, of which he is Secretary and Treasurer.
In religion, Mr. Ainsworth is a Congregationalist, He is also a
Free Mason. In politics, he is a Republican, having linked his
fortunes with that party in the days of slavery, and never yet
found good cause for changing his political affiliations. He has
been a member of the State Board of Equalization for six years,
and was elected to the Senate in 1882, by a majority of three
thousand six hundred votes. Mr.- Ainsworth is so extensively
engaged in manufacturing, and has had such valuable experience,
as a merchant, that he may be looked upon as one of the men
who will be a safe authority in, legislative circles, upon questions
relating to the commercial and manufacturing interests of the
State. He will labor for the protection of the people against
extravagant appropriations and over-taxation, and his champion-,
ship will carry with it a great deal of weight and intellectual
influence. He is of medium height, a very pleasant old gentle-
man, decisive in speech and action, and plain in dress and man-
ners. Although a man of business, he is generous in opinion and
purse.

40 BIOGRAPHICAL SICKTO«KS.

HON. WILLIAM R. ARCHER.

This justly distinguished member of the1 Senate was born in
New York City, April 13th, 1817. His father was a Gotham
merchant. Mr. Archer was favored with a liberal and substan-
tial education at Flushing, Long Island, and, unlike most young
men of city extraction, who are favored with indulgent parents
and superior educational advantages, it did not make a fool of
him; but, on the contrary, increased his thirst for knowledge,
and stimulated him to labor for honorable achievements in the
never ending struggle for intellectual excellence and profes-
sional supremacy. Mr. Archer came to Illinois in 1838, and
located at Pittsfield, Pike County, where he how resides. For
three years prior to his emigration, he had been an untiring stu-
dent of law in the office of the Honorable John L. Lawrence,
of New York, and, contrary to the usual rule, was admitted to
the bar for superior classical attainments, in three years, instead
of four. He was licensed to practice his profession in the courts
of Illinois in August, 1838, and soon afterwards in the United
States Courts. He was a member of the Constitutional Conven-
tion of 1847, was Clerk of the Circuit Court in his county from
1856 to 1860, was a member of the Lower House of the Legisla-
ture in 1860-61, a member of the Constitutional Convention of
1870, was elected to the Senate in 1872, re-elected in 1876, and
again in 1880. In 1877 he was made Chairman of a Committee
or Commission on Damage to Overflowed Lands, and filed a re-
port on November tenth, in which the Assembly concurred.
Mr. Archer is an Kpiscopalian in religion, and an unswerving
Democrat. He is one of the strongest men in the Assembly, and
his words are generally heeded by his party friends. He is a
very genial and agreeable gentleman, polite and affable to all.
He is of medium stature, hearty, portly and full of vitality.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 41

HON. ANDREW J. BELL.

Mr. Bell was born in Madison County, Ohio, May 25th, 1843-
His father was a merchant j - and his mother, formerly Mary
Wright, was one of those good women who believe that a son,
who begins life with proper impressions regarding the virtues
:and vices of society, will ever be found upon the roll of honot
and integrity. Being left a widow when Andrew was quite
young, Mrs. Bell spared no endeavor to rear him with proper
"views as to his duty toward mankind, and his privileges in well
regulated society. Mrs. Bell and her family came to Illinois in
1844, locating in Marshall County. When twenty-two years of
age, Andrew removed to Lacon, where he remained eight years,
when he went to Peoria, where he now resides. His education
•commenced in the common schools of the various localities in
which his youthful days were passed, was much improved by a
course of study in Lombard University, Galesburg, Illinois, and
he is finishing and polishing his mental acquirements in the.
«tern school of experience. He read law with Richmond &
Burns, and was admitted to the bar in 1866. He held the posi-
tion of Deputy Collector of Internal Revenue during Andrew
Johnson's administration, was City Attorney of the city of Lacon
for three years, and was elected to the State Senate in 1880. He
•served as a Private of the Eleventh Illinois Infantry from 1862
to 1865. He holds no membership in the church, but is an en-
thusiastic Odd Fellow and a member of the Grand Army of the
Republic. He is a pronounced Democrat and was elected over
Harlan P. Tracy, a popular and wealthy gentleman, by a small
majority. It is said that he is one of the strong men of his
district. He is large and well proportioned in person, and kind,
genial and gentlemanly in bearing. He is an admirable specimen
of manly symmetry, and an influential and able speaker.

42 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. AUGUST WERNER BERGGREN.

This prominent Senator was born in Sweden, August l*7th,r
1840. His parents were John and Catherine Berggren, his
mother's maiden name being Larsan. The father, with six sons
and one daughter, came to Knox County, Illinois, in 1856. His
mother died in 1845. August had learned the trade of a tailor
in his fatherland, and his first avocation in this country was that
of his former choice. In 1869, he was elected Justice of the
Peace, and afterward served as Sheriff of Knox County, four
terms. He was elected to the Senate of the Thirty-second Assem-
bly, during his last term as Sheriff, and reflected as his own suc-
cessor. He is a member of the Methodist Church, a Free Mason
and a prominent Odd Fellow, being Past Grand Master of Illi-
nois, in the latter order. He has been very desirous of introduc-
ing the order into Sweden; but during his visit to Europe, in
1882, made up his mind that the fraternity in Denmark, only an
hour's sail from his fatherland, was in such good hands, that the
efforts of Americans were unnecessary. He is President of the
Covenant Mutual Benefit Association, of Galesburg, an insurance
organization for Odd Fellows and their families. Mr. Berggren
has accumulated quite a competency by his careful and assiduous
attention to business, and excellent judgment in financial affairs..
In person, he is large and portly, genial, yet dignified in disposi-
tion, and possesses those excellent qualities of mind and heart,
which endear a man to his associates. He is slow and deliber^
ate in speech and convincing in argument.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 43

HON. FRANK M. BRIDGES.

This gentleman was born in Greene County, Illinois, July 27th,
1834, his father being a farmer. At the age of twenty-two
years, he left home, going to Missouri, where he remained seven
years, when he went to California, afterward visiting Nevada,
Mexico and South America, and landing in New York City on
his return journey, in 1866, when he returned to the old home-
stead, of which he is now the proprietor. His education was
acquired in the common schools of Illinois, and by a partial
course in Shurtliff College, at Alton. When in the far West,
he was engaged in mining, but since his return to Illinois, has
been pursuing the steadier but equally sure road to fortune which
lies in the newly-made furrow. He belongs to no church or
secret society. In political belief, he is an uncompromising and
full-fledged Democrat, and has never been anything else. He
was elected Sheriff and ex-officio Collector of Greene County, in
18 74. His decision and determination were never more freely
displayed than during this official term, when he levied upon a
freight train of the Rockford, Rock Island & St. Louis Railway,
for unpaid taxes, and chained it to the track at White Hall. He
fought the company through the courts, and victoriously asserted,
the supremacy of the law, throughout his term. In 1878, he was
elected to the House of Representatives, and to the Senate in
188^, over Smith, Republican, from the Thirty-seventh District.
His majority was 2,300. In person, he is large and portly, light
in complexion, fearless and determined, yet generous and kind
in disposition. He is a man who will say precisely what he
thinks, and says it plainly, whether it pleases his hearers or not.
He is a man of considerable magnetism and great force of
character.

44 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. HORACE [S. CLARK.

Senator Clark was born in Geauga County, Ohio, August 12th,
1840. His father, Captain Joseph M. P. Clark, was a farmer,
and the earlier experiences of the incipient statesman were, as
usual the result of farm life. Mr. Clark was educated in the
common schools of his native county, the Western Reserve Sem-
inary, Farmington, Trumbull County, Ohio, and the Iowa State
University, at Iowa City. He began a course of legal study
under the instruction of Judge William Miller, of Iowa City,
but completed it with Smith & Page, at Circleville, Ohio, where
he was admitted to the bar. Mr. Clark entered the army as a
private in Company " E," Seventy-third Ohio Volunteers, and
successively became Sergeant, Second Lieutenant and First Lieu-
tenant. At the battle of Gettysburg he was severely wounded,
and afterward commissioned Lieutenant Colonel in a new Ohio
regiment; but never mustered into the servicfe as such. In 1865,
Mr. Clark came to Illinois, locating at Matfoon, Coles County,
where he has since resided. His ability an<} merits as a lawyer
were soon recognized by the people, and he has enjoyed a most
profitable and successful practice. In politics, he is a clearly
defined and uncompromising Republican, and, as such, has been
recognized as a political leader in his district for a long time.
He has served one term as Judge of the Circuit Court in his Ju-
dicial Circuit, and his official acts were endorsed as having been
perfectly satisfactory to his constituents, by his election to the
State Senate in 1882. He is a very able man, and occupies the
prominent position of one of the recognized party leaders in the
body of which he is an honored and honorable member. In person,
he is of medium height and light complexion, kind, affable and
obliging. He is a man of considerable firmness,, and is very
ready in wit, and quick to discover a vulnerable point in his
opponent's arguments — quite shrewd, in fact.

HON. THOMAS CLOONAN.

Mr. Cloonan was born in Sufferns, New York, in 1851. His
parents were Edward and Bridget Cloonan,. arid, at the time of
the birth of our Senator, his father was a common laborer. Mr.
Cloonan, himself, has risen from the humbler walks of life, by
his own exertions and determined efforts to make himself worthy
.of the suffrages of his party friends. He emigrated to Illinois in,
1855, and was educated in the public schools of Chicago. He
has labored as a butcher and brick-maker until recently, when
Mayor Harrison, of Chicago, appointed him a bridge-tender. He
held that position from 1879 to March 16th, 1882, when he was
transferred to the Water Department of the city government,
retaining his position until last December, when he resigned to
enter upon his duties as a State Senator. Mr. Cloonan is a de-
vout Catholic, and member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians.,
He was elected to the House of Representatives from his district
in 1880, and, in 1882, advanced to the honorable position of Sen-
ator by a plurality of 1,803 votes over three competitors for the
office. In person, Mr. Cloonan is tall and well proportioned.
He is what might truthfully be termed, a gigantic man. He is
florid in complexion, broad shouldered, and manly. In tempera-
ment, he is a typical Irishman, full of vivacity, reckless of danger,
and resolute in opinion. He possesses a fund of the character^
istic mother wit of his race, which renders him a genial and
agreeable companion, and a favorite among the laboring classes,
which gave him the high office he now occupies. He is a fair
sample of the self-made heroes of which our country is so pro-
lific. It is scarcely necessary to add that he is an uncomprom-
ising Democrat.

46 BIOGRAPHICAL SKKTCHKS.

HON. JOHN H. CLOUGH.

Mr. Clough was born in Maine, August 6th, 1830, his father
being a farmer. When John was but nine years of age, the
family removed to Farmington, in the same State, where it re-
mained but one year, finally locating at Mt. Vernon, where he
worked at farming until he attained his majority, attending
school for a few weeks during each of two years at the Academy
in Readfield. He taught winter schools for several years, also,
but, in 1855, he came to Chicago, where he has since resided.
He engaged in the produce trade and is yet an extensive dealer
in provisions. In religious belief, he is a Congregationalist, but
does not hold membership in any of the secret orders. He is a
Republican in politics, and believes that his party advocates
correct theories in relation to the affairs of a Republican form of
government, as implicitly as one could adhere to any faith. He
was one of the County Commissioners of Cook County from
18Y2 to 1875, serving in that capacity to the satisfaction of his
people and his own honor. He was elected to the State Senate
in 1882, by a very large vote, and is rapidly proving that he is a
proper man in the appropriate place. He is a man of pleasing
address and firm principles. He is an earnest advocate of party
men and measures, and is respected and esteemed by his associates
and constituents.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 47

- HON. LEATS7DER D. CONDEE.

Mr. Condee was born in Athens County, Ohio, September 26th,
1847, his father being a farmer by occupation, at that date. In
1854, the family came to Illinois, and settled in Coles County,
whence Mr. Condee removed to Butler, Missouri, where he re-
mained until 1868, then went to Kankakee, and afterward to
Cook County, in 1874. His education is academic, except in
professional matters, in which instance he is a graduate of the
Law Department of the Michigan University. He also read law
with Judge M. B. Loomiss, of Kankakee, being admitted about
three months before he attained his majority. He is not a mem-
ber, but attends services at an Episcopal Church. He is both a
Free Mason and Odd Fellow, and has attained high honors in
both orders. In politics, he is a safe and constant-minded Re-
publican, having espoused the principles of that organization
long before he was able to emphasize his sentiments by casting
a ballot. He has been Village Attorney at Hyde Park, Cook
County, four terms. In 1880, he was elected to the State Senate,
by a majority of about 4,600 votes, from the Second Chicago
District, running ahead of the entire ticket. This is his Illinois
record, and he has another, at Butler, Bates County, Missouri,
where he resided from 1868 to 1873, equally as bright and prom-
ising, professionally and politically. In person, he is of aver-
age stature and dark complexion, his hair being quite gray, but
his moustache as dark as ever. He is very kind, obliging and
generous in disposition, and is respected and admired by his
numerous friends.

48 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

'. HON. JAMES W. DUNCAN.

This gentleman was born in LaSalle County, Illinois, January
18th, 1849, his father being, at that time, a contractor and
builder. He was educated at the school of Our Lady of Angels,.
Niagara Falls, New York. Mr. Duncan read law with E. F. Ball,
attorney at LaSalle, Illinois, was admitted to the bar in April,
1871, and at once began practicing his profession in that cityr
where he remained until 1882, when he removed to Ottawa,
where he now resides. Mr. Duncan has won an enviable repu-
tation in his profession, and stands high in the LaSalle County
bar. He is a Catholic in religion and does not belong to any
secret society. In politics, he has been a Democrat from time,
to him immemorial, and is more and more confirmed in the
faith, as the years of extravagance in public affairs roll on. He
has held many positions of a public nature during his profes-
sional career, among which may be mentioned City Clerk of
LaSalle, two years; City Attorney, one year, and Mayor, five
years. He was elected to the State Senate over Hart, Repub-
lican, in 1882, from the Twenty-third District, by a rousing
majority,' and this is considered a Republican District, too. He-
is President of the Union Coal Company, of Peru and LaSalle,
and, also of the Twin City Gas Works. He is a large share-
holder in the City National Bank, of LaSalle, and the Peru City
Plow Works. As the reader will infer from these statements,
he is a very wealthy gentleman and he is fully as generous and
noble-minded as he is wealthy. He is a man of very fine physical
proportions, although a little inclined to portliness, dark in com-
plexion and hearty, genial, jovial and kind in his intercourse
with the public. It is very safe to say that most of his acquain-
tances are his friends.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 40

HON. JOHN C. EDWARDS.

This comparatively young gentleman, was born in Blount
County, Tennessee, January llth, 1849, his father being then
engaged in farming. The family removed to Illinois in the fol-
lowing year, locating at McLeansboro, Hamilton County, where
Mr. Edwards now resides. His education was acquired in the
common schools of Illinois, and at McKendree College, of which
he is a graduate. He read law with the Hon. John W. McElvain,
of his city, and was, in due time, admitted to the bar. He is a
Methodist in religious faith, and belongs to the order of Knights
of Pythias. In politics, he is a Democrat, of life-long standing,
and, as such, was appointed Master-in-Chancery of his county in
1874, elected Prosecuting Attorney in 1876, was Village Attor-
ney in 1879 and 1880, and elected to the State Senate in the lat-
ter year. Jn 1882, he was reflected, over Leslie Durley, by a
majority of two thousand five hundred votes, from the Forty-
sixth District. Mr. Edwards is a comparatively young member
of the Senate, especially, when we consider the fact that he is
now serving his second term as such; but he has made a good
officer at both sessions, and his constituency would commit no
error in returning him at the next election. He is a very honest,
able and progressive young man, whose influence and power of
conviction in debate cannot be disregarded by his associates. In
person, he is tall, and dark in complexion. He is uniformly
kind, affable aivl polite, and is well liked by all his intimate ac-
quaintances.

50 BtOOBAPIIICAL SUKTOHKS.

HON. HENRY H. EVANS.

The subject of this sketch was born in Canada, March 9th,
1836, his father being at that time a millwright. His family
came to the United States in 1840, locating at Aurora, Kane
County, Illinois. The family is of Welsh extraction. Mr.
Evans' education was acquired in the common schools of Illinois.
He is engaged in dealing and speculating in real estate, and con-
ducts other affairs of a like character. In 1862 Mr. Evans en-
listed in the One Hundred and Twenty-fourth Regiment of
Illinois Volunteers, as a private, and was mustered out of the
service in the same capacity, at the close of the war. He does
not belong to any church ; but is a member of the Grand Army
of the Republic. In political belief and practice, he is a Re-
publican of life-standing and deep-seated convictions. Feeling,
as he does, that his party organization is based upon principles,
which lie at the very foundation of free government, he has
never hesitated, in speech or vote, to give it his unqualified .sup-
port. In 1876, he was elected to the House of Representatives,
and promoted to the State Senate in 1880. He was reelected to
the latter honored station in 1882, by a majority of over 4,500
votes, from the Fourteenth Senatorial District. In person, he is
tall and well proportioned, and has dark-brown hair and beard.
In dress, he is very careful and neat — almost stylish, in fact. In
disposition, he is jovial, witty, polite, obliging and generous,
and his circle of friends is very large. He is a very careful, in-
telligent and apt legislator, and does honor to his official station.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 51

HON. JOSEPH W. FIFER.

He was born in the Old Dominion, Staunton, Virginia, is the
first town to which memory carries his recollections of men and
things, and he cannot re-call anything which occurred prior to
October 28th, 1842. His father was a contractor and builder in
those days. The family emigrated to McLean County, Illinois,
in 1857. Mr. Fifer enjoyed very excellent educational advan-
tages, and, judging from the outpouring of his well stored mind,
must have improved them as few young men do. He was
graduated from the Illinois Wesleyan College with the Class of
1868. He had been pursuing his legal studies in the office of
Bloomfield & Prime, in Bloomington, meantime, and was ad-
mitted to the bar soon after his matriculation. In August, 1861,
Mr. Fifer enlisted as a private in Company " C," of the Thirty-
third Illinois Regiment of Volunteers, serving until October,
1864. He was wounded by a shot through the right lung at
Jackson, Mississippi. He is not a communicant of any church,
but is a member of the Order of Knights of Pythias, of full
rank and in good standing. He is a Republican, having espoused
the principles of that party when he became a voter, and adhered
to them ever since. He has served two terms as Prosecuting
Attorney of his county, and was elected to the State Senate in
1880, by a very large majority. In person, Mr. Fifer is of
medium height and dark complexion. He is a very fine lawyer,
a strong debater, and a good conversationalist. He is dignified
in bearing, and firm and aggressive, though generous and polite
in disposition and deportment.

52 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES,

HON. JOHN FLETCHER.

Mr. Fletcher was born in Scotland, in August, 18'31, his father
being a house-carpenter. Ten years later, the family came to the
United States, locating in Hancock County, Illinois. When
asked the manner in which he acquired his education, he tersely
answered, " I have none ;" but we are very well satisfied that he
is not so unfortunately situated, as his words imply. If he never
enjoyed the privileges of good schools, he must have applied
himself with unusual assiduity and perseverance ; for he is
certainly a very well informed man, possessed of exceedingly
sound powers of reasoning, and a very excellent ability to form
correct judgment at short notice. By occupation, Mr. Fletcher
is a farmer, owning no less than three hundred acres of very
fine farming lands, upon which he has numerous herds of well-
bred swine, He is not a member of any church organization ;
but belongs to the Vlasonic Order. In politics, he is an enthusi-
astic and confirmed Republican, never having seen a tangible
reason for being anything else. He has held minor offices in his
city and county ; but was never honored with one of very great
prominence until elected to the State Senate from the Twenty-
fourth District, in 1880, — a Democratic district. He is an honest
farmer, who can brook no measure, which seems like a
swindie on the people, no matter how cautiously it may be
worded, or how plausible it may appear, as presented by its ad-
vocates. In person, he is plain,. of medium height, and dark in
complexion. He possesses a hearty good nature, is agreeable in
conversation, and enjoys a joke very much.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES, 55

HOX. DANIEL B. GILLHAM.

When Vr. Gillham was born, there was no unusual disturbance
•of the elements, or other phenomena as an omen of his coming.
Xike all other men, who have been raised to positions of promi-
nence and responsibility, he quietly began life in the usual way.
He was born at Wanda, Madison County, Illinois, April 29th,
1826, his father being a farmer and itinerant minister of the
•Gospel. Mr. Gillham's education was begun in the common
schools of his county, prosecuted and further pursued in the
celebrated McKendree College, and will be completed when he
has become too old to learn. He is one of those progre'ssive
agriculturalists and stock-raisers who take advantage of any
knowledge which is likely to assist them in intelligently pursuing
their most honorable occupation. He is a member of the State
Board of Agriculture at present, and has been President of that
body. He has been President of the Board of Trustees of
Shurtliff College for ten years. He is a Baptist in religious
faith, but does not belong to any of the secret orders. In
politics, he is a pronounced and uncompromising Democrat, and,
as such, was a member of the Lower House of the Twenty-
seventh General Assembly. He was elected to the State Senate
in 1882, over Brigeman, by a majority of three hundred and
fifty votes. He is rather short in stature and dark in complexion.
He is shrewd and witty, an entertaining conversationalist and
forcible debater. He is polite aud generous in natural impulse,
and a man whom it is not difficult to like.

54 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. LLOYD F. HAMILTON.

This gentleman, the Senator from the Capital District, was
born in Meade County, Kentucky, April 25th, 1844, his father
being, like most fathers of celebrated men, a farmer. The sub-
ject of our sketch came to Illinois in 1850, first locating in Taze-
well County, but afterward removing to Springfield, where he
now resides. His literary education was acquired at Eureka
College, Woodford County, Illinois, his professional qualifica-
tions were the result of a course of law study under the instruc-
tion of Judge Scholfield, of the Supreme Court, and graduation
from the law school at Ann Arbor, Michigan, and the Union Col-
lege of Law,Chicago. He has served as State's Attorney of San-
gamon County for four years, City Attorney of Springfield one
year, and is one of the very best criminal lawyers in the State of
Illinois. He has few equals and fewer superiors in this branch of
his profession. He is a member of the Ancient Order of United
Workmen, but does not commune with any church organization..
In politics, he is thoroughly and indubitably Democratic, from
core to circumference, being a candidate for presidential elector
in 1880, and was elected to the State Senate, in 1882, by a majority
of one thousand five hundred and sixty-five votes, over Dr. Jayner
his party opponent. In person, he is tall, gruff and dignified.
He possesses many of those social qualities, however, which
endear mankind to their fellow men, and has a firm hold upon
popular favor. He is kind-hearted and generous to a fault, and*
is a powerful advocate of any measure which he chooses to
endorse.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 55

HON. MILLARD B. HERELY.

Senator Herely first opened his wondering eyes, in the State of
New York, in the year 1857, and is, therefore, the most youth-
ful member of the State Senate of Illinois, at this session. The
family came to Illinois in 1863, locating in McHenry County,
where the subject of our sketch remained until 1875, when he
made a bee-line for Chicago, where he established hi nself in-
commercial business. His literary education was acquired in
the common schools of McHenry County, and, for purposes of
personal interest and commercial information, he pursued a course
of legal study in the Union College of Law, at Chicago. In
religious faith, Mr. Herely is a Roman Catholic, but he does not
affiliate with any of the secret orders. Politically, he is an un-
compromising and unwavering Democrat, born, bred, educated
and convinced. He has never for a single moment cherished the
idea of forsaking the political organization which maintains that
the people should be free in speech and religious belief, and that
the government at Washington has no greater power than that
expressly given .it by the Constitution of the United States. He
now occupies his first public office, having defeated Peter
Kilbasse, his political opponent, by one thousand five hundred
and eighty-one votes, for the State Senate in the Thirteenth
District of Cook County. In person, Mr. Herely is of medium
height and fair complexion. He is rather witty and apt in
speech, possessing the genuine faculty of the Irish people for
making tart replies to questions, or bandied words. He is very
genial, kind and pleasant in disposition.

56 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. DANIEL HOGAN.

Mr. Hogan is a noble son of Erin, who was born July 4th,
1849. His father cultivated the native heath for his daily bread
and that of his family, and, being desirous of better opportu-
nities, came to the United States with his family in 1852, locating
in Pulaski County, Illinois, where Daniel now resides. Mr.
Hogan's education was obtained in the public schools of Illinois,
and the celebrated Bryant & Strattqn Business College. Al-
though he has been engaged, much of his time, as a telegraph
operator and clerk, he has devoted a large amount of attention
to farming, owning no less than three thousand acres of valuable
lands. He also has an interest in a hotel in Mound City. He
was a telegrapher and cipher-clerk in the army, during the re-
bellion. Mr. Hogan belongs to no church or secret order. He
is a Republican, soul and body, from sole to crown, and has
served as Sheriff of his county, two years County Clerk, nine
years, and was elected to the Senate in 1882, over Youngblood,
Democrat, by a majority of eight hundred and fifty-five votes.
He has traveled over the greater part of the United States, in
connection with various kinds of business, and has learned many
valuable lessons from observation ard experience. He has a
family of three children, whom he keeps in the Capital during
the session. This stamps him as a man of excellent qualities,
with a heart, generous and noble in its impulses. Mr. Hogan
has acquired his entire fortune by his own exertions, although he
was penniless, when his independent career began. He is a
first-class financier, and a good debater, -and- will impress the
legislation of the sessions with the stamp of his handiwork.

SKKICIIKS.

HON. GEORGE HUNT.

Senator Hunt was born in Knox County, Ohio, in 1841, he
came to Illinois, settling near Paris, in Edgar County. His edu-
cation was acquired in the common schools and academies of
Illinois, and has been very much improved by his diligent habits
of study and observation. It is an education which is more
practical and useful, than ornamental — one well calculated to
serve him in the affairs incident to a public career. In July,
1861, he enlisted in the Twelfth Illinois Infantry, as a private,
being mustered out of the service four years later, as Captain.
He read law with practicing attorneys at Paris, and was admitted
to the bar in 1869, since which time he has been engaged in
business pertaining to his profession, and the public affairs of his
county and district. He has been County Superintendent of
Public Instruction, four years, and is serving his ninth year in
the State Senate, having been elected to both of these offices as
a Republican. He never held but one political faith, and has
been as constant and faithful to the party whose cause he advo-
cates, as a milk-maid to her best beau. In person, Mr. Hunt is
quite a small man, quick, nervous and energetic in anovement,
and sharp and incisive in debate. He is very kind and polite in
his intercourse with the public, and plain in dress. He is one of
those little men whom God saw fit to create principally of heart
and brain.

58 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. LOUIS IHORN.

This gentleman was born in Saxe-Coburg, Germany, the Prov-
ince in which the husband of Queen Victoria first looked upon
the beauties of the world, January 31st, 1826. His father was
then engaged in farming. In 1837, the family came to the Uni-
ted States, locating in St. Clair County, Illinois ; but removing to
Monroe County, ten years later. His education was acquired in
the common schools of his native country, and he has obtained
a very excellent knowledge of the English language, since com-
ing to this country, by personal observation and persistent prac-
tice. Mr. Ihorn is engaged in various branches of business and
trade, among which may be mentioned general merchandise,
lumber trade and farming. He is an astute trader and success-
ful financier. He does not affiliate with any of the secret orders,
but is a member of the German Lutheran Church. In politics,
he has been a Republican ever since he has been anything, and
has, as yet, discovered no good cause for transferring his affec-
tions from his first love. He has been School Treasurer of his
township for several terms, and was elected to the State Senate
in 1880, defeating John T. McBride, of Randolph County, by
seventy-two votes, in a Democratic district. His farm consists
of five hundred acres of land, and, although he does not desire
to boast of his wealth, and refused to particularize concerning it,
when asked to do so, it is quite certain that he^is a man of more
than ordinary means. In person, he is short and heavy — a typi-
cal German, in fact. He is placid in temper, kind and obliging
disposition, and jolly, social and generous in natural impulse. He
is a man who does not hesitate to say just what he thinks, upon
all proper occasions, and, while he says everything in a very
pleasant way, it often cuts his opponent to the very core.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 59

HON. MAURICE KELLY.

Mr. Kelly was born in the Emerald Isle, in March, 1830, his
father then being engaged in farming. Not enjoying the form
of government and circumscribed privileges incident to life in
Erin, the family came to the United States in 1837, locating in
Adams County, Illinois. Mr. Kelly's education was acquired in
the common schools of Illinois, and by varied public experiences,
since he has attained the age of mature manhood. He followed
the choice of his father in selecting an occupation, becoming an
honest farmer when he became a man. Owing to his energetic
and observant habits, he soon arose in popular favor, and has
held numerous positions of honor and trust in his county and
district. He does not affiliate with any of the secret orders.
He is and has ever been a Democrat in principle and practice,
and the older he becomes the more firmly he is grounded in
political faith. He has been Sheriff of Adams County for two
years, and Supervisor for eight years, was a member of the Lower
House of the Twenty-seventh General Assembly, and is now
serving his third term as State Senator. He was elected over
Joseph N. Carter by a majority of about six hundred votes. He
owns a farm of three hundred and twenty acres, and devotes
considerable time to the breeding of Cotswold sheep and Poland-
China pigs. He is very proud of his fine stock, and, from in-
formation secured from other sources, we feel convinced that his
pride is just and has its foundation in fact. In person, he is tall
and dark in complexion. He is very decisive and eloquent in
debate, and a shrewd legislator and kind, generous and obliging
gentleman.

60 BIOGRAPHICAL • SKETCHES.

HON. GEORGE KIRK.

Mr. Kirk was born at Cairo, Greene County, New York, Feb-
ruary 9th, 1824. He came to Illinois, May 21st, 1843, locating at
Chicago, but in 1847, he removed to Waukegan, Lake County,
where he now resides. His education has been acquired partially
in the Dutchess County Academy, of New York State, and partly
by a miscellaneous course of general and scientific reading. He
was a foundryman and machinist by trade, being one of the
early mechanics of Chicago, but he sold out that "plant"
twenty-five yeai s ago, and is now conducting an extensive lumber
trade. He does not belong to any church denomination or
benevolent or secret society. He has been a Republican in
politics ever since the party came into existence, and he is proud
of its record and determined to adhere to its cause, until some
better reason for forsaking it than any which has ever yet been
charged against it shall appear, and, even then, he would give it
up as a child would leave the parental roof — with sorrow and
regret. He has the utmost confidence that s"uch an exigency will
never arise, however. He was for ten years a member of the
Committee on Public Buildings in the City Council of Wauke-
gan; has been Chairman- of the Board of Supervisors of his
county, and, in 188^, was elected to the State Senate from the
Eighth District, by a majority of seven hundred votes over the
Honorable Merritt Joslyn. In person, Mr. Kirk is large and
portly, dark in complexion and determined in position and spirit.
He is averse to any effort at self-advertising, and so anxious was
he to avoid being noticed in this work, that the facts upon which
this sketch is based were ascertained with great difficulty, and
partially from sources other than himself. He is very gentle-
manly in appearance, and is a shrewd legislator and a noble and
generous man.

BIOGRAPHICAL, SKETCHES. 61

HON. EDWARD LANING.

This gentleman was born in Clark County, Ohio, in December,
1837. His father was a merchant. The family came to Illinois
during the following year, locating at Petersburg, Menard County,
where x V. Laning now resides. His parents are both now liv-
ing, his father being eighty-four years of age. Mr. Laning's.
educational course consisted of a classical career of one year at
the Wesleyan University, Bloomington, Illinois, and three years
in Lombard University, Galesburg, Illinois, of which he is a
graduate, He read law without any instructor, except his books,
and was admitted to the bar in 1861. He has been engaged in an
extensive and successful practice ever since. Mr. Laning is a
Free Mason of the Degree of Knight Templar. In politics, he
has always been a Democrat, and he is no less one to-day than he
was years ago. His convictions are the force that controls his
actions, and he is convinced that the principles of the Democracy
are sufficiently numerous and powerful to commend them to the
people. He was Superintendent of Schools of his county from
1864 to 1866, and was elected to the House of Representatives
in 1868. In 1870, he was elected to the State Senate, and in
1880, he was reelected to his present position, and, without ques-
tioning the propriety of the statement, we are informed that his
legislative career has been an able and bright one. In person,
he is a man of medium height ; dignified, yet obliging in bear-
ing and disposition, and a just and generous gentleman in his
intercourse with the people. He is a man who wins friends
without an effort to do so. He has traveled considerable in the
Southern States.

62 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. WILLIAM A. LEMMA.

This gentleman was born at Shawneetown, Illinois, in Decem-
ber, 1839, his father and mother being of Irish extraction. His
education was acquired in the common schools of Illinois, and by
diligent study of such valuable books as he was able to secure.
He removed to Texas when quite young, remaining there four
years, when he returned to Illinois, and located at Carbondale,
Jackson County, where he read law with Judge Allen. He does
not belong to any church or secret society. In politics, he has
never expoused the cause of any party but the Democratic, of
which he has been a consistent and unwavering member through-
out his political career. His first public position was that of City
Judge of Carbondale, an office which he held four years. He
was elected to the House of Representatives in 1870, and re-
elected in 18 72. He was then chosen Mayor of his city, being
re-elected to the office at the expiration of his first term. In
1876, he was made Prosecuting Attorney of Jackson County,
and, in 1880, was made Senator from the Fiftieth District, over
Joseph B. Thorpe, whom he defeated by a majority of about
twelve hundred votes. Mr. Lemma's political career has been a
mere repetition of his first success, inasmuch as he has scarcely
been out of office since he entered the political lists in 1870. In
personal appearance, he is large in both stature and circumfer-
ence, dark in complexion, polite, affable and accommodating — in
fact, a perfect gentleman. His political career has been urn
tarnished by any species of jobbery or truckling. Not even a
suspicion of his strict integrity and sterling worth has ever been
whispered.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 63

HON. WILLIAM H. McNARY.

This noble son of an industrious and patriotic ancestor, was
born on a farm in Mason County, Kentucky, July 14th, 1821. His
father was a 'soldier in the memorable War of 1812, and recol-
lected when the Independence of the United States of America
was promulgated. In 1826, the family removed to Greencastle
County, Indiana, whence it came to Clark County, Illinois, in
1840. Mr. McNary's education was acquired in the public
schools, and Asbury University, at his Indiana home. By pro-
fession Mr. McNary is a physician, of thirty-five years' experi-
ence, having read medicine with his brother, Samuel T., at Mel-
rose, Illinois. In 1847, he joined the tide of humanity, which
was pouring into the newly discovered gold-fields of California,
and, after an eventful trip of five months across the plains, which
were then peopled with Indians, and infested by wild beasts,
reached his destination, where he remained through the exciting
days between forty-nine and fifty-three. He is a prominent
member of the American Medical Association, and the ^Escu-
lapian Society, both of which are professional bodies. He vol-
unteered in 1847, going to the Mexican frontier; but, before
reaching the front, the regiment was discharged and its members
returned to their respective homes. Mr. McNary^is a believer
in the existence of God, but does not affiliate with any church
or secret society. He is very wealthy, owning six excellent
farms of Clark County land, aggregating about seventeen hun-
dred acres. He is an unswerving and unterrified Democrat, and
has always been one, He was elected to the Senate from the
45th District, in 1882, by a majority of 500 votes. He is one of
the cool-headed, warm-hearted and wise old fellows, to whom the
people may safely entrust their most vital interests, without fear
or doubt.

64 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. CHRISTOPHER MAMER.

Mr. Maraer was born September 10th, 1851, at Luxembourg,
Germany. His father was a German watchmaker and jeweler,
who was forty-eight years of age when Christopher came into
the world. The family came to Chicago in 1852, and the subject
of our sketch was placed in the College of St. Mary's of the
Lake, at the proper age, for mental training. He was a very
energetic student and made rapid progress, and is now a very
finely educated young man. He engaged himself as an appren-
tice at the jewelry trade when seventeen years old, and, at
twenty, began business for himself. He is not a member of any
church or secret society, and has never held any public office
prior to his election to the Senate in 1882. He has been a Re-
publican ever since he became a voter, and knows of no good
reason why he should be anything else, now or hereafter. Mr.
Mamer has begun at the foot of the ladder and is rising to its-
summit with considerable rapidity. The people of the Fourth
District made no mistake in sending him to the Legislature, and
he will endeavor to serve them as he should, by voting for such
measures, only, as they are likely to approve, and raising hi&
voice in behalf of right and justice, on all proper occasions, which
demand that his constituents should have a hearing. His ma-
jority over his opponent, Rogers, was over twelve hundred votes.
In person, he is not above the average American stature, dark
complexion, polite, affable and witty in conversation, and power-
ful, acute and incisive in debate. He is a man of generous,
nature and very estimable qualities.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 65

HON. WILLIAM ERNEST MASON.

This gentleman was born at Franklinville, New York, July
7th, I860, his father being a merchant at the time of this event..
In 1857, the family removed to Bentonsport, Iowa, remaining for
a short time and finally locating at Des Moines, in the same
State. In 1871, Mr. Mason established himself in Chicago,
where he has since been engaged in practicing his profession as
a lawyer. His education is solely the result of attendance at
common schools, and individual exertion. He acquired his pro-
fessional knowledge by a course of reading under the instruction
of practicing attorneys, for a period of no less than five years.
He was admitted to the bar in 1870. Mr. Mason now is,
and has been for the last four years, a member of the firm
of Wallace, Mason & Medbury, Chicago. The combination
of .legal talent and energy is a very strong one, and the
firm enjoys a lucrative and constantly increasing clientage.
The subject of our sketch is not a member of any church, but is
a Mason of the Knight Templar Degree, an Odd Fellow, and mem-
ber of the Ancient Order of United Workmen. In politics, he
is a faithful and earnest Republican, having entered his political
•career as such, and knowing of no reason sufiicient to demand a
change in his political affiliation. He is a man of recognized
Legislative ability, and was a member of the Lower House of the
Thirty-first General Assembly from the Fifth Chicago District.
He now represents the Ninth District in the State Senate,
although the Democrats carried the rest of the ticket by a large
majority. His opponent in the canvass was Peter J. Thornum,
who was defeated by over five hundred votes. In person, he is
of medium height, dark in complexion, and a little inclined to
portliness. He moves about with considerable agility, however,
and enjoys a good joke as well as any Senator in this Assembly.
He is very agreeable, kind and friendly in disposition, and enjoys
the friendship of a great many people.

60 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. THOMAS E. MERRITT,

Who has not heard of " Tom " Merritt, whose powerful voice
and ready wit have chained the attention or tickled the fancy of
the people of Illinois, for the last ten years? Of all of the mem-
bers of the Thirty-third General Assembly, Mr. Merritt is,
perhaps, most widely known and generally celebrated. He was
born in New York, removing with his parents to St. Clair County,
Illinois, in 1840. At fifteen years of age, the subject of this
sketch went to St. Louis, Missouri, where he learned the trade
of a carriage painter, which he followed seven years. His edu-
cation was acquired in the common schools of the State, and,
although his advantages were not great, "Tom" Merritt secured
enough of the wares, in which they dealt, to give him a consum-
ing ambition to acquire more. He studied men and events with
his books, and, when he began reading law, in 1858, he was
already well learned in the politics of his country. He was ad-
mitted to the bar in 1862, locating in Salem, Marion County,
where he yet resides and practices his profession. He has been
interested in most of the causus celcbre of his section of the
State, and is renowned for the earnestness and force, with which
he pursues his cause. He is not a member of any church or
secret order, but if you want to find a downright, upright,
horizontal and incandescent Democrat, you need not pass him by.
He, perhaps, holds greater political power in his district, and
has held it for a longer time than any of the remaining members
of either house. He was a Representative, prior to 1880, for no
less than five consecutive terms, and, at that date was elected to
the Senate, and re-elected by an overwhelming majority in 1882.
He is as fearless ts a lion and as presistent as a beaver. lie is
an accomplished politician, and, in the heat of debate, the slight
impediment in his speech vanishes, and he deals with hard facts
and amusing incidents in a manner unparalleled in the Senate
Chamber, prior to his accession.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 67

HON. WILLIAM S. MORRIS.

Mr. Morris is a native Illinoisan, having been born to O. B.
Morris and Louisa, his wife, nee Enbanks, December 4th, 1842,
on their farm in Gallatin County. He has never resided in any
other State, and is content to live and die in the agricultural
garden of the United States. His education was obtained in the
common schools of his county, under almost insurmountable
disadvantages, but, by close application and diligent effort, he
has succeeded in qualifying himself for a successful career as a
lawyer and Legislator. He studied law in a school conducted by
Judge Duff, whose name is familiar to all of the older members
of the bar in this State. He began his political career as a Jus-
tice of the Peace in Franklin County, in 1866, was States'
Attorney of llardin County from 1872 until 1876, and was a
member of the House of Representatives in the Thirtieth and
Thirtieth-second General Assemblies. Mr. Morris enlisted in the
Thirty-first Regiment of Illinois Volunteers, in 1861, as a private,
and, at the close of the war, was mustered out of the service as
First Lieutenant. He was elected Senator in the Thirty-third
General Assembly of his State, as a Republican, having adhered
to that faith since his majority.. He tersely declares, " I was
never anything else." Although he is of Dutch descent in one
line, and Welsh in another, he is thoroughly Americanized, and
is a fair sample of the man which comes from a native " Sucker
Boy," when he is born with intelligence, and taught perseverence
by his early experience as a farmer. In stature, he is not above
medium, has a light complexion and sandy hair. He is a good
talker and earnest reasoner. His manners is that of a man, who
knows his strength and is not afraid to try his mettle with the
best. He is a Methodist in religious belief, and an ardent Odd
Fellow.

68 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. THOMAS B. NEEDLES.

This very well known gentleman was born in Monroe County,

Illinois, . His father, James B. Needles, was a merchant

when Thomas was born. He was born in Maryland and came to
Illinois in 1830. He was a soldier in the Blackhawk War, and
afterward served as Sheriff of Monroe County, six years. He was
prominently known in Southern Illinois in the early days of that
region, and identified with many of the public measures of
Monroe, M adison and St. Clair Counties. Thomas B. has always
lived in Illinois, with the exception of two years, which were
passed at school in Keokuk, Iowa. With the exception of an
academic course of the time and at the place mentioned, his edu-
cation was acquired in the common schools of Illinois. His
present place of residence is Nashville, Washington County.
In politics, he is an active and prominent Republican. He was
elected County Clerk of Washington County four consecutive
terms, making sixteen years of service in that one office. He
has been a member of the Republican Central Committee of the
State for four years, and was elected State Auditor in 1876,
serving four years. In 1880, he was elected to the State Senate
from the Forty-second District. He is a Free Mason and a very
prominent Odd Fellow. He was elected Grand Master of the
latter order in 1870, and has served as one of the Representatives
of the order in Illinois, to the Sovereign Grand Lodge, four
years. He is above medium height, well proportioned and dark
complected, grave in demeanor and dignified in bearing, but
quite sociable and obliging in manner and disposition.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 69

HON. LYMAN B. RAY.

Mr. Ray was born in Vermont, in August, 1831, his father then
being engaged in the most honorable of all occupations — pro-
ducing food for those who neither toil or spin. Mr. Ray's edu-
cation was acquired in the public schools and academies of his
native State, and, as he improved his opportunities, he possesses
a mind well stored with valuable information. In 1852, he came
to Illinois, locating at St. Charles, where he remained until 1854,
when he removed to Morris, Grundy County, which he has since
made his home. He is engaged in dry goods merchandising.
His knowledge of commercial affairs is extensive and valuable,
and he can and will illuminate the questions pertaining to such
affairs, which may arise during his official incumbency. He
affiliates with no secret order, but attends Congregational Church.
In political matters, he became a Republican, when he became
a voter, and has never wavered in his devotion to the principles
of his party from that day to this. The party has, in return for
his fidelity, honored him with various offices of honor and trust.
In 1872, he was elected to the General Assembly, and wTas chosen
State Senator in 1882, from the Seventeenth District, by a ma-
jority of about three thousand votes, over J. S. R. Sevirlle, his
political opponent. He is descended from American ancestors.
In. person, he is of average stature, rather large, dark complected,
and tidy in dress. He is polite, affable and generous in disposi-
tion and enjoys a pointed joke very much. He is inclined to be
witty and sharp in speech, at times, as some of his associates
know from experience.

70 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. ISAAC RICE.

Hon. Isaac Rice was born in Washington County, Maryland,
October 28, 1826. His father, Jacob Rice, was a farmer,- who
removed to Ogle County in 1837. Mr. Rice was educated in the
public schools and Rock River Seminary, of Mt. Morris, Illinois,
the Jschool in which Shelby M. Cullom, United States Senator,
received his intellectual training. He is also a graduate of Rush
Medical College, of Chicago, but has never practiced medicine.
He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church; but does not
affiliate with any secret society. Mr. Rice is essentially a self-
made man. He began farming in order to secure the means with
which to obtain a medical library, and so liked the independent
occupation of an agriculturalist, that he never forsook it. He is
a total abstinence man in his habits, using neither weed or wine.
He is a Republican of life standing, having espoused the cause
of that party at its birth, and been an abolitionist before that,
and has been twice elected to the House of Representatives, first
in 1872, and again in 1874. In 1880 he was chosen to represent
the Twelfth District in the State Senate. He has been a careful,
temperate and prudent man all his life, and by his industry has
acquired an ample competence. He is a very large and portly
old gentleman, whose white locks contrast strongly with his vig-
orous physique arid rudy complexion. He is kind, gentle and
pleasant in his deportment and conversation, and enjoys a good
joke as well as the next man. He says that a practice of these
habits very much aids one in becoming immortal. He is a
strong man in the Senate, and has the good will of his associates.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 71

HON. ERASTUS N. RINEHART.

This gentleman was born in Effingham County, Illinois, Feb-
ruary 29th, 1848, his father* being a farmer and country merchant.
Mr. Rinehart's education was acquired in the common schools of
his county, and McKendree College, at Lebanon, Illinois. His
professional education was acquired by a regular course of study
in the office of Cooper and Kagay, a iirm of practicing attorneys
of Effingham, and in due time was admitted to the bar, and has
been engaged in a successful and profitable practice ever since.
He does not affiliate with any church organization ; but belongs
to the Improved Order of Red Men. In politics, he is unques-
tionably and very positively a Democrat. He has been one from
"time whereof his memory runneth not to the contrary," and his
•convictions of the rectitude and advisability of his political pre-
ferences has grown stronger with each year, that has been added
to his experience. He was a member of the Thirty-second Gen-
eral Assembly, and was reflected to the Senate in 1882, by a
plurality of about three thousand votes, over W. F. Leonard and
Newton Gwinn. In addition to his legal business, Mr. Rinehart
owns a well-stocked and nicely equipped drug store, in Effingham,
and a farm of some three hundred acres in its immediate vicinity.
He is quite comfortably situated, with reference to this world's
.goods, and takes life, as a man of his ability and surroundings
should. In person, he is a large and powerful man, not only in
physical proportions, but in mental force and personal magnet-
ism. His hair is quite long and very black, and he is one of those
men whose words tell at every motion of the lips. He possesses
-a faculty of presenting matters as hard facts, and convincing the
mind of his audience of the truth, by apt illustrations. From
this description, the reader might imagine him cold and indiffer-
ent in disposition; but behind all his strong manhood, there lies
a heart as tender and sympathetic as that of a woman.

72 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. JASON ROGERS. .

Mr. Rogers was born in Lawrence County, Indiana, June 16thr
1833, his father, Lewis Rogers, being a farmer. The family re-
moved to Greene County, in the same State, and the subject came-
to Illinois in 1860, and located at Bement, Piatt County, where
he engaged in merchandising. In 1865, he removed to Decaturr
where he has since resided. He continued merchandising and
also conducted an extensive business in real estate brokerage,.
by which he has amassed a considerable fortune. At present, he'
should be classed as a retired merchant and broker, as he does
little business, except that of overseeing his farms. He has always
been a Republican in politics, and comes of a Methodist family,
although he does not belong to any church. He has served as a
member of the County Board of Supervisors of his county, two
terms, and has held numerous minor offices of public trust. In
1880, he was elected to the House of Representatives, and to the
Senate in 1882, defeating S. S. Jack, of the Decatur Iteview, by
six hundred and sixty-three votes. Mr. Rogers ran five hundred
and forty-nine votes ahead of his ticket, which is a very valuable-
circumstance by which to form an estimate of his -position
among the people of his district. In person, Mr. Rogers is
large and portly, his beard, once dark, is now becoming quite
gray, and he is one of those whole-souled, genial men, who
never lack friends. He is a successful financier, politician and
legislator, and justly a popular man among his associates.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. WILLIAM H. RUGER.

Mr. Ruger was born at Plattsburg, Clinton County, New York,
August 15th, 1841, his father being at that time, a sailor. In
1847, the family came to Illinois, locating in Chicago, where Mr.
Ruger now resides. His education was acquired in the public
schools of Chicago. In the autumn of 1861, Mr. Ruger enlisted
in the United States Navy, serving on the Mississippi Flotilla
until March, 1864. He has been a clerk in the Postoffice at Chi-
cago, for sixteen years, and was Assistant Superintendent of
Mails at the time of his election to the State Senate, in 1882, re-
signing the former position at the time of entering upon his
duties in the latter. During his naval service, he participated in
all of the principal engagements along the rivers, upon which
the Flotilla operated, being at the first battle at Fort Henry,
among others. He was mustered out of the service as Surgeon's
Steward. He belongs to no church or secret society, but has
always been a Republican, although elected to his present posi-
tion as an independent candidate, from the Fifth Cook County
District, which is Democratic by £ majority of two thousand
nine hundred votes. The regular Democratic nominee was
defeated by Mr. Ruger by nearly one thousand votes. In person,
Mr. Ruger is above medium height, fair in complexion and
well proportioned. He is kind and polite in manner and jovial
in disposition. He is very popular, and has a very large circle
of friends wherever he is known. He is a very pleasant gen-
tleman, who is worthy of his honors.

74 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. CONRAD SECREST.

Mr. Secrest was born in North Carolina, May 3d, 1829. At
the time of his birth, his father was engaged in farming, and
the family moved to Indiana when Mr. Secrest was but three
years of age. Conrad, at the age of twenty-one, came to Illinois
locating in Iroquois County. The literary education of this
gentleman was acquired in the common schools of Illinois, and,
incidentally much improved by his professional studies at the
Rush Medical College, at Chicago, of which he is a graduate.
After a lucrative and successful practice of ten years, he added
the duties of a druggist and pharmacist to his medical offices,
and followed the combined occupations for some six years, when,
to employ his own form of expression, he " became an honest
farmer." His farm consists of about five hundred acres of land,
and he devotes considerable attention to breeding Shorthorn
cattle and Berkshire swine. He does not belong to any church,
but is an active and esteemed Odd Fellow. In politics, he is a
Republican, having espoused the cause of that party when it
came into existence. He has held various offices of honor and
trust in his township, was elected to the House of Representatives
in 1876, and re-elected in 18*78 and 1880, being chosen Senator in
1880, and re-elected over Dr. Spitter, by a majority of two thou-
sand three hundred votes. In person, Dr. Secrest is large and
portly, has light hair and a full beard, considerably streaked with
gray. He is a gentleman of extended influence in the affairs of
the Senate, and is one of those genial, shrewd, affable and gen-
erous men, whose acquaintances are generally their warm friends
and enthusiastic supporters. He is a man, whose convictions are
based upon sound reason, and who will put up with no rings,
cliques or log-rolling political methods.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 75

HON. HENRY SETTER.

This gentleman was born in the town of Lebanon, St. Clair
•County, Illinois, September 22d, 1845. He has never made his
place of residence elsewhere. Mr. Seiter's educational advan-
tages were excellent and well improved. In addition to as good
public schools as there are elsewhere in Illinois, McKendree Col-
lege stood almost at his door. He was graduated from the latter
popular institution, and, also, from the Michigan State Univer-
sity. Mr. Seiter is a very wealthy and influential gentleman,
owning no less th&ii one thousand five hundred acres of very excel-
lent farming lands, being President of the Illinois Live-Stock Com-
pany, which is largely interested in New Mexico cattle ranches,
and the senior member of the private banking firm of H. Seiter &
Company. He is not a communicant in any church; but is a
Free Mason and Odd Fellow. He is a Democrat of long stand-
ing and confirmed opinions, and was a member of the lower
house of the Thirty-first General Assembly. He was elected to
the State Senate in 1882, by a small majority, in a very close dis-
trict— the Bloody Forty-seventh. In person, Mr. Seiter is of the
average stature, and is exceedingly neat and tidy in dress. He
is polished in manners and affable, kind and generons in the nat-
ural promptings of his heart. He is rather inclined to wit, and
enjoys a joke as well as any other member, if it be a pointed one.
He is a very shrewd financier, and careful servant of the people
of his great State. He does honor to the office which he fills,
and his constituency can justly point to its Senator with pride.

76 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. THOMAS M. SHAW.

Mr. Shaw was born in Marshall County, Illinois, to parents of
German extraction, who were winning their food and raiment,
and that of their family, by honest labor upon a farm, when
their now distinguished son came to gladden their hearts, and
urge them to more earnest efforts. Mr. Shaw has resided in the
county of his birth, ever since that epoch in his history. His
education was acquired in the common schools of Illinois and at
'Judson College and Rock River Seminary, the latter being the
institution from which Senator Shelby M. Cullom was graduated.
Mr. Shaw read law with William D. Edwards, of his native
county, was admitted to the bar in 1867, and has practiced his
profession at Lacon, Marshall County, where he now resides,
ever since. He does not belong to any religious denomination
or secret order. In politics, he is a firm and unwavering Demo-
crat— one who feels that his party is based upon the true theories
of a Republican form of government, and that it is his duty to
adhere to it for the good of the country. He now holds the first
public office, which he has ever been called to fill, having been
elected from the Twentieth District over Cassel, Republican, by
a majority of four hundred votes. Mr. Shaw owns a very valua-
ble farm of one hundred and sixty acres. In person, he is large
and portly, dark in complexion, but his hair is becoming quite
gray. He is genial and kind in disposition, and polite and affable
in his intercourse with the people. He is a man whose power is
considerable, and friends numerous, in the Assembly.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 77

HON. E. B. SHTJMWAY.

This popular member of the Senate, was born at Jamaica, Ver-
mont, June 27th, 1851, his father, Alvava Shumway, and his wife,
formerly Miss Harriet N. Barber, then residing on a farm. Mr.
Shumway was presumably very much the same kind of a boy
that he is a man — one who laughed at the obstructions which lie
in the way of aspiring genius, and immediately devised the plans
and put forth the efforts necessary to overcome them. His early
farm-life added experiences of inestimable value to his natural
confidence and determination. His literary education was ob-
tained at West River Academy, Londonderry, Vermont; Black
River Academy, Ludlow, Vermont, and Chamberlain Females'
Institute and Literary College, Randolph, New York. His pro-
fessional education is due to individual effort, under the instruc-
tion of Dr. W. W. Mayo, of Rochester, Minnesota, and a full
course of study in the celebrated Rush Medical College, Chicago,
where he was graduated in 1874. After his graduation, he was
selected, by competitive examination, as attending physician for
the Cook County Hospital, where he remained for one year,
when he returned to his original Illinois home, Peotone, Will
County, and engaged in the active practice of his profession.
He is a Free Mason, being Master of Peotone Lodge, No. 636.
He is not a church member. Mr. Shumway is a Democrat, never
having changed his political faith since he became a voter. He was
a member of the Thirty-second Assembly, and having received the
nomination of his party, for the Senate, determined to leave no
stone unturned, which might reveal a means or furnish a vote
with which to overcome the 2,000 Republican majority in his dis-
trict. How well he succeeded is attested by his election, by a
majority of 1,267 votes. Mr. Shumway is a man of noble physi-
cal and mental proportions, and is one of the most energetic and
persevering Senators in the Thirty-third Assembly. He is a
very able man, who seems to have begun a career of usefulness
and honor, which may yet place his name high above his com-
peers, on the scroll of fame.

78 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. W. C. SNYDER.

This gentleman was born in Cumberland County, New Jersey,,
in July, 1821, his father being a miller by occupation. In 1845,,
Mr. Snyder went to Lyons, Iowa, wheie he remained but a short
time, removing to Whiteside County, Illinois. Owing to hi&
being required to labor for the support of the family at a very
early age, his educational wants were partially overlooked, and
he was limited to a very irregular attendance at the public
schools. He has supplied a great deal of what was denied him
in youth, by extraordinary efforts since he has attained the estate
of manhood, however, and enjoys a very excellent knowledge of
mankind and its peculiar conditions and wants. He was appren-
ticed to a merchant, but afterward studied medicine and practiced
his profession seven years. He was raised a Quaker in religious
belief, and is a Free Mason. He is a Republican in politics,,
having linked his fortunes with that party, when it came into
existence. He has served as Postmaster of the town of Fulton,,
for twenty-two years, only resigning the office when elected to
the State Senate, in 1882. He has been Chairman of the Repub-
lican Central Committee of his party, for ten years, and Drainage
Commissioner, twelve years. He is engaged in grain-dealing,
and as a commission merchant, in connection with the Post-
mastership, and is largely interested in real estate transactions.
Mr. Snyder is not above medium in stature, is, or rather has
been dark complected, but is now quite gray, so far as hair and
beard are concerned. He is polite and generous, and is a very
practical and forcible speaker. He is one of the solid old men
of the Senate, and will do his duty under all circumstances.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES* 79>

HON. DAVID H. SUNDERLAND.

This gentleman was born in Anderson County, Vermont, in
1822, and is now sixty years of age. His father was an honest,
and industrious blacksmith, from the sparks from whose forge
and anvil, the youthful David, learned many lessons, which have
had their effect in shaping his destiny and forming his character.
Until he was past seventeen, the subject of this sketch spent
most of his time in assisting his father forge and weld and file
and grind, for the necessaries of life; but he afterward pursued
his studies in a local academy. He came to Illinois in early-
manhood, and located at Freeport, where he now resides. He is
a member of the First Presbyterian Church, of his city. In the
early days of his residence in Stevenson county, he was a school-
teacher. He is a Republican. He does not claim to be a politi-
cian, but has held several positions of honor and trust, among^
which may be mentioned, those of Mayor of his city, and Super-
visor of his township. In 1880, Superintendent Walker, of the
Census Bureau of the United States, appointed him Census Super-
visor for the Second Census District. He was a warm advocate
of the so-called Sunderland-Hinds bill, in relation to the liquor
question, in 1880, and is said to have delivered the most eloquent
address ever heard in the Senate Chamber of our State. He was
congratulated by friends and foes, and was greeted with a shower
of boquets from the ladies, who filled the galleries. He is short
in stature, and crowned with a head of snowy white hair, which
renders him very patriarchal in personal appearance. He is gen-
ial and kind in disposition, and is regarded as one of the most
powerful men in the Senate of the Thirty-third Assembly. He
possesses the friendship and regard of his associate.

80 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. JOHN R. TANNER.

This gentleman was born in Warrick County, Indiana, April
4th, 1844, his father then being a farmer. In 1862. Mr. Tanner
came to Illinois, locating at Flora, Clay County. His education
was acquired in the common schools of his native State, his ex.
periences with the Hoosier school-master, having been more lim-
ited, however, than he desired. Mr. Tanner followed the noble
example of his father in selecting his occupation, and is an es-
teemed and popular farmer. His farm consists of about four
hundred acres. In 1863, Mr. Tanner enlisted as a private in the
Ninety-eighth Regiment of Illinois Volunteers, served untill
June, 1865, when he was transferred to the Sixty-first Illi-
nois, being mustered out of service at Springfield, in Sep-
tember of the same year. He does not hold membership in
any church, but is an Odd Fellow and member of the Ancient
Order of United Workmen. In politics, he is a firm, prominent
and active Republican, having become a voter as such, and never
faltering or hesitating in regard to his political convictions since
that time. In 1870, he was elected to the office of Sheriff of his
county, and at the expiration of his term of office, was chosen
Circuit Clerk. In 1876, he was appointed Master in Chancery,
and, in 1880, elected to the State Senate, over Dr. Shirley, of
Xenia, whom he defeated by a majority of nearly four hundred
votes, in a very close district. He was appointed a member of
the State Central Committee of the Republican party, in 1*874,
and has been retained in that capacity ever since. In personal
appearance, Mr. Tanner is six feet, two inches high, and weighs two
hundred pounds, dark in complexion, wears his hair quite long,
and is hearty and jovial in disposition. He is large-hearted and
generous, plain in speech, and a very strong and influential
Senator. He is one of the honest farmers, who are the safe-
guards of the people, against extravagant expenditure of State
funds, and such misappropriation as they have a right to condemn.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 81

HON. GEORGE TORRANCE.

This prominent and influential Senator was born in Fairfield
County, Ohio, May 15th, 1847, his father being a carpenter and
joiner, by trade. Mr. Torrance was educated in the public
schools of Ohio, and his own incessant habits of study and obser-
vation. In 1864, the family came to Illinois, locating at Danville,
from which place Mr. Torrance removed to Livingston County,
in 1868. He espoused the law as his congenial calling, and
studied under the instruction of Fosdick & Wallace, also
Wyman, all of Chatsworth. He became a clerk in the Provost
Marshal's office during the war, and, in 1864, when but seventeen
years of age, enlisted in the One Hundred and Forty-ninth Illi-
nois Regiment, serving until the close of the war. Prior to 1873,.
he had followed commercial pursuits for some time, but he then
established the Chatswortli Palladin, and conducted it in connec-
tion with his profession, about eighteen months. He served as.
Village Attorney of Chatsworth for several years, being appointed
to that position by the Board of Trustees. He is a born, bred
and dyed-in-the-wool Republican in politics, and was elected to>
the State Senate in 1880. His present residence is Pontiac,.
Livingston County. In person, Mr. Torrance is not above
medium height, a little heavy in proportion to his stature, polite,
affable and obliging in demeanor, and kind, considerate and gen-
erous in disposition. He is not an orator, but he can turn loose
a broadside of fact, sometimes, which will overcome all the
flights of oratory, that can be brought to bear. He is a man
who will not vote for appropriations intended to further private
interests or provide free advertising for anyone at State expense.

82 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETO.HKS.

HON. HENRY TUBES.

Mr. Tubbs was born in Albany County, New York, December
12th, 1822. His father was a farmer of moderate means, and
Henry was obliged to depend upon his own _ resources for educa-
tion and support. After leaving home he devoted seven years
to academic and medical study, teaching and working during va-
cation, for his support. Having become a physician, the twelve
years of laborious practice which ensued, so impaired his health
that a change became imperative. He therefore removed to
Warren county, Illinois, in 1859, became interested in farming,
and has resided there ever since. His domain was well man-
aged, and, proving a productive investment, has continued to ex-
pand, until he is now the owner of a very large and valuable
farm. During the last few years much of his time has been de-
voted to the First National Bank, of Kirkwood. He is the
founder, President and principal owner of that institution. He
is a pronounced and positive Republican ; but never sought an
office, or claimed the questionable honor of being a politician.
He was a delegate to the National Republican Convention that
nominated Grant and Wilson, and that which nominated our be-
loved and lamented Garfield. He has been President of the
County Agricultural Society, and was, for many years, Chairman
of the Board of Supervisors. Mr. Tubbs was a member of the
State Constitutional Convention of 1870, and was elected to the
State Senate in 1882, without a canvass, in what had been a Demo-
cratic District, during the four preceding years. He is a good-
looking, kind, generous and benevolent gentleman, whose hair
and beard are frosted with the threads of advancing years. He
is an able and influential man, and is regarded as one of the Re-
publican leaders in the Senate.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 83

HON. WILLIAM T. VANDEVEER.

This gentleman was born at Taylorville, Christian County,
Illinois, August 22d, 1842. His father, Horatio M. Vandeveer,
was one of the most prominent lawyers of his day. He has held
each of the county offices in Christian County, and was Circuit
Judge two terms. William received a good common school ed-
ucation in his native city, after which he was a junior in Shurtliff
College, at Alton, Illinois. After the completion of his colle-
giate course, he read law with his father, was admitted to the
bar, and has since been engaged in the practice of his chosen
profession. He transacts all of the business for his bank. He
engaged in banking in 1868. The firm name of the establish-
ment is H. M. Vandeveer & Company, and the institution is one
of the strongest of its kind in Illinois. Mr. Vandeveer is an
Odd Fellow, Mason, and Knight of Pythias, being the Repre-
sentative of his lodge, in the latter, and High Priest of his
Chapter, in the Masonic Order. He has held the latter position
nine years. Ever since attaining his majority, Mr. Vandeveer
has been a firm and ardent Democrat. He was one of the State
House Commissioners for four years, has been Mayor of his city,
and was elected to the State Senate in 1880, by the largest vote
«ver given a candidate in his district. He is the proprietor
of about two thousand three hundred acres of excellent land, in
addition to large banking and city real estate interests. In per-
son, he is large and well-proportioned, neat, but plain in dress,
polite and entertaining in conversation. He is one of the strong
me'n of the Senate, and is generally admired, respected and be-
loved for his fairness and generosity.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HOX. CHARLES A. WALKER.

He was born at Xashville, Tennessee, August 21st, 1830, his
father being a merchant. His parents came to Illinois soon
after his birth, locating at Carlinville. His education was ac-
quired in the common district schools of Illinois, and Shurtliff
College, at Alton. He studied law in Carlinville, and was ad-
mitted to the bar in 1858. He at once entered upon a successful
practice of his profession, and is now in the very midst of its-
honors and glory. He is a Democrat of long and unswerving
standing, and, as such, has held various offices of honor and trust
in his city, county and district. He was the Mayor of Carlin-
ville for several years, was a member of the House of Represen-
tatives in the Twenty-third General Assembly, and is now a
member of the State Senate, having been elected by a large
majority in 1882, from the Thirty-eighth District. In religious
belief, he is a Presbyterian. In person, Mr. Walker is large and
symmetrical, of dark complexion and prominent features- He is-
sharp and incisive in debate, and is a friend to be admired and
an antagonist to be feared. He is one of the strongest men in the
Senate, and possesses the respectful regard of his compeers and
constituents. Mr. Walker is a man of plain habits and diffident
demeanor, and, although a man of great force of character and
considerable influence, rules rather by his personal magnetism
and scathing methods of retort, than by a warmth of social dis-
position. He is admired for the leonine qualities- of his mind.,
rather than the gentler promptings of his heart.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 85

HON. GEORGE E. WHITE.

Mr. White was born on a farm near Milbury, Massachusetts,
March 7th, 1848. In 1861, he left home to attend school at the
Milbury Academy, and Wilbraham College, respectively. In
1863, he enlisted as a private in Company "I," Fifty-seventh
Regiment of Massachusetts Veteran Volunteers, being at that
time only fifteen years of age. He served until the close of the
war in the same capacity, being present when Lee surrendered to
Gen. Grant. In 1865, Mr, White came to Chicago, where he be-
•came a salesman in an extensive lumber yard, faithfully per-
forming his duties until 1868, when, at the age of twenty years,
he established himself in business as a dealer in hard wood lum-
ber, an enterprise in which he is yet extensively engaged. He
is an uncompromising Republican, and has been elected Alder-
man of his ward, three times in succession. He now represents
the First District in the State Senate, having defeated Gustave
DeMars, his opponent, in the election of 1882, by a majority of
over four thousand four hundred votes. He is a Knight Templar.
Mr. White is now a very wealthy man, owning no less than six
fine farms in Illinois. He controls them through superintendents
and tenants, and realizes an enormous income from them each
year. On one of his three Will County farms, is situated his
country residence. It is rich enough for the abiding-place of a
king. It stands upon an eminence near the railway, and com-
mands a view of the river for five miles. His landed estates
will aggregate about three thousand two hundred acres. He
also owns important railway interests, and is heavily interested
in Chicago real estate, deriving a large income from its rental.
He is one of the wealthiest members of the Thirty-third General
Assembly. In person, he is of medium height, and dark com-
plexion. He is quite handsome, winning and affable, and has a
well-balanced and finelv cultivated mind.

86 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. L. D. WHITING.

Mr. Whiting was born among the hills of Oswego County, New
York, November 17th, 1819. His mother was a lineal descendent
of Cotton Mather, whose name is prominently mentioned in the
history of Witchcraft, in New England, and his father was a
farmer, lumberman and contractor on the Erie Canal. Mr.
Whiting came to Illinois in 1849, settling in Bureau County,
where he now resides. He has held nearly all of the township
offices, from Justice of the Peace up, and was School Superin-
tendent of the county. Prior to 1854, he was a Democrat, but
July 4th, of that year, he helped to organize a convention in
Bureau County, which was the foundation for the Republican
party in Illinois, preceding all similar conventions, by at least six
weeks. Mr. Lovejoy, one of the first of the martyrs of the party,
was chief orator, and Mr. Whiting was the author of the resolu-
tions adopted as a platform. He was elected to the House in
1868, Constitutional Convention of 1870, in 1869, and in 1870,
1872, 1874, 1878 and 1882, to the State Senate. He was the
author of the proposition, afterward incorporated hi the Consti-
tution of 1870, that Railroads are public corporations, and should
be controlled by law. Mr. Whiting is one of the oldest members
of the Thirty-third General Assembly, and has the respect and
confidence of all his associates. He is rather eccentric, but his
head is a vessel, which contains a great deal of 'sound sense, and
valuable information — more than some of his peers will be able
to accumulate with double his years, and three times his ad-
vantages.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 87

HON. JAMES S. WRIGHT.

This venerable Senator was born in Highland County, Ohio,
August 4th, 1816, his father being a blacksmith at that time.
Mr. Wright, the father of our Senator, was a member of the
House of Representatives in Indiana, in 1825. In 1830, the fami-
ly came to Illinois, locating in Champaign County, where the
subject of our sketch now resides. His education was acquired
in the common schools of Indiana, and by personal effort and
close observation. He has been engaged in commercial enter-
prises a portion of his life; but gives his present occupation as
that of a farmer. He owns seven hundred acres of rich farming
lands, and is one of the most wealthy, intelligent and successful
farmers of his county. He holds no membership in any church
or secret order. His father was a Quaker in religious faith. In
politics, he is a Republican, having affiliated with that party
from the date of its organization, and never faltered in his politi-
cal faith. He became Town Surveyor in 1837, serving for twelve
years. In 1846, he was elected to the House of Representatives,,
serving one term. He was the nominee of his party for the
State Senate in 1880, and in the election of that year, was chosen
by a majority of six hundred votes, over Judge Cunningham, his
political opponent, to represent the Thirtieth District in the
honorable body of which he is a member. Mr. Wright is one of
those honest old farmers who will not endure a legislative job or
steal, in any form. In person, Mr. Wright is of medium height,
slender and gray-haired. He is a very bright, shrewd, kind and
generous man, whom all admire, when once acquainted with him.
He is the oldest member of the Thirty-third General Assembly.

OFFICERS AND EMPOYEES— HOUSE.

HON. LORIN C. COLLINS, JR.,

SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE.

The subject of this sketch was born at Windsor, Connecticut,
August 1st, 1848, whence, with his father and mother, — the Rev.
Lorin Cone, and Mary Bemis Collins, — he removed, in 1852, to
:St. Paul, Minnesota. In 1868, the family removed to Illi-
nois, locating in Cook County, where our subject and both his
parents still reside. Speaker Collin's early education was care-
fully attended to by his fond parents, and, when performing the
onerous tasks of a frontier farmer boy, his mental development
was made to keep pace with the physical. Soon after settling in
Illinois, he entered the Northwestern University at Evanston,
where his peculiarly active, analytic and comprehensive mind
gave him prominence, while his even temperament, candor and
unaffected geniality won for him a warm place in the hearts of
his teachers and fellow-students. He was graduated from the
University in 1872, and at once gave his time and energy to the
:study of law. In 1874, he was admitted to the bar, in which
well-chosen profession, he had abundant success. During his
political life, he has been a staunch and industrious Republican,
though never a narrow partisan, following blindly some tempor-
arily self-appointed leader; but rather a true friend of the prin-
ciples, by which he believes the party of his choice should be
governed. Elected to a seat in the Thirty-first General Assem-
bly, he bore his honors with becoming modesty, seldom using his
excellent oratorical ability on the floor of the House : but before
the session closed, he demonstrated to the observing ones, that he
was a nian of generous attainments, and a parliamentarian able
to cope with any there. Naturally, on his reelection he was

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 89

looked upon by the Representatives in the Thirty-second Assem-
bly as the parliamentary leader of the Republicans, a position
he filled to the gratification of his party associates, and to his
-own credit. Long before his third election, he was singled out
as the most available and suitable man for Speaker, and when
the Republican members of the Thirty-third Assembly went into
caucus, there was no opposition to Mr. Collins, who was nomi-
nated by acclamation — the youngest man on whom the honor
and great responsibility of Speakership, had ever fallen. His
conduct in the chair is the same as that which has characterized
his entire political career. Always affable, never confused, ever
firm, and seldom wrong in his opinions, yet ready to listen to
reason, and reverse an erroneous decision, he has gained the
confidence, respect and admiration, not only of his political con-
freres, but of the opposing party as well. Though by education
and membership, a Presbyterian, he stands firmly on the emi-
nence of belief that all creeds and dogmas are inferior to the
great practical, warm-hearted religion of brotherly love. Al-
though a Free Mason, Speaker Collins' fraternity of feeling has
no prescribed limits, that do not comprehend all human kind.

WILLIS BROOKS HAWKINS,
PRIVATE SECRETARY TO SPEAKER COLLINS.

Mr. Hawkins was born at Aurora, Illinois, August loth, 1852,
his father being the claim adjuster for the C., B. & Q. R. R.
He had held this position for thirty years, at the time of his
death, in 1881. Willis removed to St. Paul, Minnesota, in 1873,
and was there married to Miss Ophra E. Moore. He removed to
Indianapolis, Indiana, in 1875, but returned to Aurora in 1876,
and has made that city his place of residence since then. His
education was acquired in primary schools, by individual effort,
and by a careful study of good literature. He is an author of
some note, and has had a varied experience as an editor and con-
tributor to various newspapers and periodicals. He has been
editorially connected with the Tribune, of Minneapolis, Courier,
of Indianapolis, and Aurora, Illinois, Daily News, in which he
owns a half interest, and of which he is nominally the editor,
though his time has been so occupied with his manuscripts for
projected books, that he has given the paper but little attention

90 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

since 1880. He was Journal Clerk of the House, in 1879. He

went with the boys in blue to the railway station, and

this is his military record, complete. He has had a brief but
brilliant theatrical career, which resulted in agony to his audi-
ence, and glory for himself. He is a jolly Republican.

JOHN A. REEVE,

CHIEF CLERK, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

Mr. Reeve was born in Orange County, New York, December
7th, 1844, his father being a farmer. John came to St. Louis in
1866, remaining until 1873, when he located at Cairo, Illinois.
His educational opportunities were very limited ; but he was a
dauntless student, and soon became an expert penman. He
studied book-keeping by practical effort on his own part, and
Avithout an instructor, soon becoming so familiar with that branch
of business as to render him a desirable acquisition to a business
house. He served some of the best firms in St. Louis, in that
capacity, and has kept the books of a number of prominent Cairo
firms, since his removal to that city. He is now in business at
his present home. He was a private in Harris' New York Cav-
alry, during the war, serving until crippled in the leg, at the
Battle of Brandy Station, in March, 1864. He never performed
active field duty afterward. After returning to Cairo, he was
elected Circuit Clerk of his county, serving four years, has been
Master in Chancery, was First Assistant Clerk of the House in
1881, and was chosen Chief Clerk, when the House was organ-
ized in January, 1883. He is quick and accurate in his work,
and has many warm friends.

JOSEPH F. ALLISON,
ASSISTANT CLERK, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

Mr. Allison is a Canadian by birth, having been born at
Toronto, October 19th, 1838, on a farm. He came, with his
family, to Dixon, Illinois, in May, 1840, but soon afterward re-
moved to Carroll County, in the same State, where he was edu-
cated in the district schools, and Mt. Morris Seminary. At
twenty-two years of age, he entered the army and served until Jan-

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 91

uary 1st, 1868. He entered the service a Sergeant, and was suc-
cessively promoted to the Second and First Lieutenancies. After
the war, he served i,n the Freedmen's Bureau, in North Carolina.
He is an Odd Fellow and member of the Grand Army of the Re-
public. He was elected Circuit Clerk of Carroll County in 1868,
and sejved until 1872. In 1873, he was elected County Treasurer,
serving until 1882. He was First Assistant Clerk of the Twenty-
eighth General Assembly, and, in the organization of the Thirty-
third Assembly, was again elected for the same position. He is
an active Republican, having espoused the cause of that party
upon attaining his majority, and neyer having changed his mind
upon that subject.

MISS CLARA E. PATTON,
ENROLLING AND ENGROSSING CLERK, HOUSE.

Miss Patton was born at Pana, Illinois. Her education was
obtained in the city schools of Quincy, Illinois, where she was
graduated at the age of sixteen, and took a commercial course in
the Business College, of that city, where she now resides. She
does not hesitate about saying that she is a Republican, and was
elected to her present office upon that ticket. She is a very
excellent scribe, and an accurate and neat copyist, well suited to
the duties required at her hands. She is a lady of more than
ordinary accomplishments.

WILLIAM I. ALLEN.
ASSISTANT ENROLLING AND ENGROSSING CLERK, HOUSE.

Mr. Allen was born at Williamsport, Maryland, his father be-
ing a teacher. William removed to Illinois in 1856, locating in
Springfield, where he now resides. He has a good, substantial
academic education. He was Deputy Sheriff of Sangamon
County in 1867-8, and again in 1879-80. He was elected Assis-
tant Enrolling and Engrossing Clerk of the House in the Twen-
ty-sixth General Assembly, and Enrolling and Engrossing Clerk
of the House, in the Twenty-eighth and Thirtieth General Assem-
blies, since which time he has been engaged in the insurance
business in Springfield. He entered the army in 1862, as 2nd

"92 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

Lieutenant, and was mustered out as Captain and Assistant Adju-
tant-General. He was a member of the first Post of the Grand
Army of the Republic, and is Past Commander of the Stevenson
Post, at Springfield. He has been an organizer of glee-clubs and
writer of songs for Republican campaigns, doing the party good
service.

ALLA K. DOW,
•SECOND ASSISTANT ENROLLING AND ENGROSSING CLERK, HOUSE.

Mr. Dow was born in New York State, July 26th, 1859, his
father being a jeweler. The family came to Illinois in 1868,
locating at Belvidere, Boone County, where our subject now re-
sides. He was educated in the High School of Belvidere, and a
College at Beloit, Wisconsin, since which time he has been
reading law with Hon. Charles E. Fuller, but has not yet applied
for admission to the Bar. He has always been a Republican, and
was made Second Assistant Enrolling and Engrossing Clerk in
the organization of the House of Representatives, in January,
1883.

JOHN W. JANUARY,
POSTMASTER OF THE HOUSE.

Mr. January was born on a farm in Clinton County, Ohio,
November 29th, 1847. He is descended from Puritanic and
Revolutionary ancestors. He came to Illinois in 1355, and
located at Henry, Marshall County. In 1861, he removed to
Minonk, "Woodford County, where he now resides. He received
"his education at the Soldiers' College, Fulton, Illinois, chiefly
after returning from the war, where he served for nearly three
years, being captured in 1865 and taken to Andersonville Prison,
where he remained until so afflicted with scurvy, that his feet
actually dropped off, about five inches above the ankles. He
never had them amputated, but the limbs healed, after twelve
long years of suffering. As he now expresses it, he wears " store
feet." He came to the Union lines, clothed in a piece of a
•dressing-gown. At one time during his imprisonment, he was
BO emaciated that he weighed but forty-five pounds. Poor fellow!
No wonder that the Republican caucus decided to make him
Postmaster of the House of Representatives. He is very bright
and jovial in temper, with all his misfortunes, and well qualified

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 93

for his position. He has a picture of himself, which was made
when he was at his worst. If shown to the public, it would
almost elect him President of the United States.

MISS LIZZIE GILMEE,
ASSISTANT POSTMISTRESS, HOUSE.

Miss Gilmer was born at Pittsfield, Illinois, her present place
of residence, at a date, to the writer unknown. Her father was
a lawyer, being at one time a partner of Hon. Milton Hay, now
of the city of Springfield. Her father was a Colonel of the Thirty-
eighth Illinois Regiment of Infantry Volunteers, and was killed
during the Battle of Chicamauga. Miss Gilmer's education was
acquired in the common schools of her city, and she is an ac-
complished young lady. General Grant, during his presidency,
appointed her Postmistress of her native city, and, at the expira-
tion of the term, she was re-appointed, her second term having
expired last autumn. In the organization of the Thirty-third
General Assembly, she was elected Assistant Postmistress of the
House. She is a very amiable and agreeable young lady, probably
past twenty years of age, and is admired and esteemed by all
who know her.

WILLIAM H. SMITH,
MAIL CARRIER, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

Mr. Smith was born at Berlin, Summerset County, Pennsylva-
nia, December 14th, 1839. In 1865, he came to Illinois, locating
at Bloomington. He has a good, common school education, and
is a plasterer by trade. He enlisted, April 18th, 1861, in Com-
pany "A," Tenth Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteers, and
served during the war. He was appointed night watchman in
the House, by Secretary Dement, in 1881, and is now mail carrier.
He served as a private, during the war, and is now a member of
the Grand Army of the Republic, and a Free Mason. He is of
German extraction, and a good, honest man. He is very kind
and benevolent in disposition.

LINDSAY STEELE,
DOOR-KEEPER, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

Mr. Steele was born at Steeleville, Randolph County, Illinois,
May 8th, 1837, his father being a farmer, after whom the town

94 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

was named. His education was acquired in a log school house,
from a teacher employed by- his father. He was a farmer until
1861, in August of which year, he enlisted in Company "E," of
the Thirtieth Illinois, serving until July, 1865, when he was
mustered out as Captain. lie was wounded in both arms and
one leg, during the war; first, at Ft. Donelson, then at Vicksburg,
and, later, at Kenesaw Mountain. His father was in the War of
1812, and his grandfather a Colonel of Dragoons, in the Black-
hawk War. Mr. Steele is a member of a Lodge of Odd Fellows,
and also, one of the Grand Army of the Republic. He has been
Constable, Deputy United States Marshal, Justice of the Peace
and Notary Public, United States Pension and Claim Agent, and
was chosen Door-keeper of the House in its organization in
January, 1 883. He was Constable nine years, and Deputy Mar-
shal, ten years.

EDWARD SMITH,
ASSISTANT DOOR-KEEPER, HOUSE.

Mr. Smith was born at Middletown, Maryland, June 4th, 1833,
his father being a farmer. Mr. Smith removed from Maryland
to New Madrid, Missouri, remaining two years, when he came
to Bloomington, Illinois, where he has resided ever since. He
attended school in Bloomington, two >veeks, and has acquired a
fair education by individual effort. He was in the army at New
Madrid, Missouri, and, afterward, at Fort Pillow. He is a Ke-
publican in politics, and a Methodist in religious belief, being
also a member of a lodge of colored Free Masons, at Lincoln,
Illinois. He is a white-washer and kalsominer by trade.

REV. ARCHIE WARDE,
SECOND ASSISTANT DOOR-KEEPER, HOUSE.

Mr. W arde is the son of a farmer, having been born in Wilson
County, Tennessee, December 25th, 1840. The family came to
Illinois in May, 1875, locating at Peona. His education was
acquired in the common schools of his native State. He is now
the pastor of a Baptist Church in Peoria. During the war, he
was a cook for the Tenth Indiana Volunteers, serving until the
close of the war. He is Master of a Masonic Lodge, and also a

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 95

member of a society known as the Ladies' Court. In politics,
he has always been a Republican. He is decidedly a portly,
good looking colored man. He was married to Miss Annie Bon,
colored, in 1862.

JOHN W. HEIDEMAN,
THIRD ASSISTANT DOOR-KEEPER, HOUSE.

Mr. Heidman was born in Prussia, in 1832, came to the United
States in 1856, locating at Metropolis, Illinois, where he now re-
sides. He served three years as porter in a St. Louis wholesale
house, when he returned to Metropolis, where he has since been
engaged in farming. He is now one of the County Commis-
sioners of his county, having been elected in 1880. He was a
soldier for three years and four months, during the late war,
being Second Lieutenant of Company " D," Fifth Missouri Regi-
ment, for three years of that time. He has always been a firm
Republican, casting his first vote for Lincoln, in 1860. He was
made Third Assistant Doorkeeper in the organization of the
House, in January, 1883.

EVERARD H. DUGGER,
POLICEMAN.

Mr. Bugger's father was a soldier in the War of 1812, being
actively engaged at the Battle of New Orleans. He was also in
the Creek and Seminole Wars. Everard was born in Madison
County, Illinois, in 1829, his father being engaged in farming, at
that time. After leaving the parental roof, he located in Clinton
County, where he now resides, pursuing the occupation of a
farmer. He has been a country merchant, engineer and grain
dealer, during his life. He is a Mason- and a Republican, having
been appointed to his present position by the Secretary of State.

DAVID JENKINS,
POLICEMAN, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

Mr. Jenkins was born in Wales, July 9th, 1842, his father
being a miner by occupation. David came to the United States
in 1861, with his parents, and located at Alton, 111., in 1853. He

96 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

has a fair common school education. He served through the-
war as a private; He is a Presbyterian, Odd Fellow and Repub-
lican, and was appointed policeman by the Speaker of the House,,
in its organization.

JOHN STONE,
UNDER DOOR-KEEPER HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

Mr* Stone was born at Louisville, Kentucky, July 10th, 1840,.
his father being a cigar-maker. John came to Illinois in 1864,
working for his support, and attending night-school for his educa-
tion. He is a barber by trade, having served an apprenticeship,
of one year, and afterward worked in Washington, fourteen
months. He was Messenger in the Lower House of Congress
for two years. He has served as Messenger for the Doorkeeper
of the House, for two years, and is now Under Doorkeeper in
the House of Representatives. He is a member of the African
M. E. Church, and also a member of a lodge of Odd Fellows,,
and one of Free Masons. His residence is Lincoln, Logan
County, Illinois.

WILLIAM FINIS M'CLURE,
HOUSE POLICEMAN.

Mr. McClure was born in McLean County, Illinois, January
30th, 1839. He now resides in Ford County. He has a good;
common school education. He was engaged in farming prior or
1875, when he began dealing in stock and real estate. He is a>
Presbyterian, Mason and Knight of Honor. He has always been
a Republican, and was appointed a Policeman by the Speaker, in
the organization of the House, of the Thirty-third General Assem-
bly. He is a very obliging and jovial gentleman.

JAMES B. SMITH,
JANITOR OF DEMOCRATIC CLOAK ROOM.

Mr. Smith is a very intelligent and industrious colored man,,
who was born in Amherst County, Virginia, May 1st, 1840. He
came to Illinois in 1853, locating at Galesburg, where he re-

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

97

ceived a fair common school education. He now resides at
Peoria. He served in the Union Army during two years of the
war. He is a member of the African M. E. Church, and of a
colored men's lodge of Odd Fellows.

LIST OF PAGES,

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

GORMAN F. B.,
ANDERSON, WARREN, -
ANSLEY, JOHN, . -
BALLARD, EDWARD,
BULL, GORDON,
COYLE, JOSEPH,
CREWS, FLOYD,
CURRY, WILL,
NICHOLS, HARVEY, -
PATTERSON, WINTON,
PLETZ, BRUCE,
RICHARDSON, WILLIE,
RITTER, GEORGE,
SHEPPARD, WILLIE,
STUART, JOHN,

Chicago

Springfield

Swedonia

Rock Island

- Barry

Barry

Mt. Vernon
Springfield
Carlyle
- Chicago
Springfield
Springfield
Springfield
Springfield
Springfield

REPRESENTATIVES.

HON. ISAAC ABRAHAMS.

Mr. Abrahams was born in Prussia, August 15th, 1834, hi»
father being at that time, a tailor. In 1851, Mr. Abrahams came
to the United States, locating in Chicago, where he remained
until 1859, when he removed to Quincy, returning to the me-
tropolis of the State in 1 870, and residing there now. Thirty-one
years ago, Mr. Abrahams was a peddler; to-day, he is one of the
most respected members of the House of Representatives of his
State. While in Quincy, Mr. Abrahams was Chief of Police for
three years. In Chicago, he followed the provision and grocery
business, until burned out in 1871. He then engaged in the
wholesale liquor trade ; but, in 1874, was again tried by fire. He-
is a member of the following secret orders : Masonry, Odd Fel-
lowship, Knights of Honor, Kesher-shell Bassell, and Sons of
Benjamin ; but does not belong to any church. In politics, he
is a confirmed and unrelenting Democrat. After the second
destruction of his business, in 1874, he became Deputy bheriff
of Cook County, under the administration of Sheriff Kern, At
the expiration of his term of office, he became a member of the
City Board of Public Works, retaining that position until elected
to the House of Representatives, in 1882, by the largest vote
\ipon the ticket in his district — the Third Chicago, which is
probably the wealthiest representative district in the United
States. In person, Mr. Abrahams is of average stature and fine
physical proportions. His complexion is quite dark ; but his
hair is beginning to show the frosts of time, a little. He is an
earnest and impressive speaker, and an amiable and agreeable
gentleman, acute of perception and generous in disposition. He
honors the office in the same ratio that he is honored by it.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 99

HON. WRIGHT ADAMS.

He was born in Kendall County, Illinois, November 21st, 1842,
to Earl and Deborah Adams, the maiden name of the latter
having been Gifford. His father was one of the sturdy yeomen
of pioneer Illinois. Mr. Adams followed in the footsteps of his
father, and is yet engaged in the honorable and lucrative occu-
pation of sowing and reaping, that the world may have food.
He was educated in the public schools of his county, but, poor
as were the educational advantages of those early days, his
knowledge is extensive and his application of it most excellent.
He enlisted in the Ninty-first Regiment of Illinois Volunteei's, as
a private, in 1862, and served three years in the time of our
country's great travail. He was brevetted Lieutenant for gallant
deeds, ere his term of service expired. He is a member of the
Methodist Episcopal Church and a Blue Lodge Free Mason.
Politically, he is a declared Republican, having been so since he
attained the age of a voter. He was a member of the Board of
Supervisors of La Salle County, for four years, and was elected to
represent his district in the Lower House of the Thirty-third
General Assembly, in 1882, by a large plurality. His farm con-
sists of five hundred and twenty acres of excellent land, and he
devotes considerable attention to breeding fine sheep. The
Shropshire Down is his favorite family. In person, he is of
medium height, dark in complexion and handsomely propor-
tioned. He is genial, affable and entertaining in conversation
or debate.

100 BIOGRAPHICAL SKF.TCHEP.

HON. J. M. ANSLEY.

The subject of this sketch was born in Westmoreland County,.
Pennsylvania, May 21st, 1333, his father being a farmer, at that
date. Mr. Ansley came to Illinois in 1867, locating at Swedonia,
Mercer County. The literary education of Mr. Ansley was ac-
quired in the common schools of Pennsylvania and Glade Run
Academy, at Dayton, in the same State. Professionally, he is a
physician and surgeon, being a graduate of the Jefferson Medi-
cal College, of Philadelphia. He is reputed to be a very fine
practitioner of the healing art. He does not belong to any
church ; but is a Mason and Odd Fellow. In politics he is a pro-
nounced and unterrified Republican, who espoused the cause of
the party in times of National peril, and, realizing that the blow
aimed at the Union, was parried by its administration of the
affairs of our government, he feels that duty calls upon him to
adhere to its principles, and assist in perpetuating its civilizing
influences, lie has not been, nor is he now, a professional poli-
tician. Outside of the purely trust positions of School Director
and Township Trustee, he had held no public office prior to his
election to the House of Representatives, in 1882, from the
Twentv-first District. He now resides at Swedonia, Mercer
County. Mr. Ansley has been unfortunate in his domestic re-
lations, having lost his wife and one of his two children. His
living child is a page in the House of Representatives, at the
present session. In person, he is large and well proportioned,,
neat in dress, wears a noble-looking beard, of great length, and
is a very dignified man in bearing. He is earnest, forcible and
positive in debate, genial, good-natured and generous in disposi-
tion. Since the above sketch was written, Dr. Ansley has taken
unto himself a partner of his joys and sorrows.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 101

HON. JOHN H. BAKER.

Mr. Baker was born in Moultrie County, Illinois, February 3d,
1855, and is now twenty-eight years of age. Joseph Baker and
Mary Brown, his wife, were the parents of this gentleman, Like
nearly all of his associates on the floor of the House, his life
began on a farm, and his education was principally obtained
from the common schools of his county. After he had left the
parental roof, however, he entered the law school at Ann Arbor,
Michigan, where he was graduated with honor, and afterward
pursued his studies under the guidance of Hon. John R. Eden, of
Sullivan, and Hon. Lloyd F. Hamilton and Rice, of Springfield.
He had dealt in grain previous to adopting the law as his profes-
sion, so his character for good judgment was formed when he en-
tered upon the practice of the law, and he had that advantage over
most young men, who seek fame and lucre at the Bar. After his
admission, he began practicing at Sullivan, Illinois, as a partner of
Judge Meeker. This relation existed for three years, when Mr.
Baker withdrew and launched his own legalship. He comes to the
House as one of the Representatives from the Thirty-third Dis-
trict. In personal appearance, he is below the medium stature,
dark complected, careful in dress and polished in manners. He
is shrewd and incisive in debate, and very quick to perceive an
advantage or avert a blunder.

102 BiouitAi'iiiCAL SKETCHES.

HON. SOLOMON H. BETHEA.

This gentleman was born in Palmyra Township, Lee County,
Illinois, in 1852. His father was the first, and at that time, only
settler in Lee County, and his grandfather was a classmate of
the celebrated John C. Calhoun, and, being a slave-holder, can-
vassed the matter in his own mind, and came to the conclusion
that it would be right to set his slaves free. When a Bethea
once makes up his mind that a given course of action lies in the
line of duty, he does not hesitate to adopt it; sp the blacks were
called together, by their master, and given a deed of emancipa-
tion, which sent them forth in the world as free men and women.
Mr. Bethea is a lawyer by profession, and has a very fine literary
education, being a graduate of the Michigan State University.
He read law with Judge Eustace, of Dixon, afterward becoming
his partner, in the business of his profession. He does not hold
membership in any church or society, except that of Free
Masonry. He is a Republican in politics, and has always been
one since he became a voter. He has not held any public office
of note, until his election to the House of Representatives, in
1882, from the Nineteenth District. He is of Welsh descent, on
one hand, and Irish on the other, thus forming a strong combi-
nation of perseverent characteristics, derived from his ancestors.
He is a good lawyer, and a shrewd and successful politician.
He is light in complexion, not above medium height, strong and
vigorous, and will win his way to fortune and to fame, in the near
future.

SKETCHES. 103

HON. GEORGE BEZ.

He is a German by birth, was born in the Southern part of
•Germany, August 9th, 1833. His father was both a miller and
farmer. Mr. Bez came to Illinois in 1854, locating in Will
County, where he now resides. He possesses a very excellent
•classical education, acquired in his native country, and has
learned to speak and write the English language^ with great ease
and remarkable correctness. He is engaged in brewing, and
has succeeded in amassing a small fortune, by close attention to
business and strict integrity in dealing with the people. August,
1862, found him enlisted in the One Hundreth Illinois Infantry,
and he remained in the service until the result of his wounds
compelled his resignation. The injuries, to which we refer,
were received at the Battle of Stone River, near Murphysboro,
Tennessee. Being disqualified for active army duty, he was
placed in command of a battery, remaining in charge of the
.same until he resigned his commission as Captain, and returned
to the more pleasant, but less exciting duties of civil life. He
is not in com nunion with any religious denomination, although
he inclines to the Lutheran belief. He is a Free Mason. Mr.
Bez was a Republican until four years ago, when the political
•excesses of that party became so nauseous to him, that he
sought refuge in the ranks of the Democracy. He has served as
Postmaster of his town, Mokena, for eight years, was a member
-of the County Board of Supervisors for one term, and, in 1882,
was elected a Representative to the Lower House of the General
Assembly, by a very large majority. In person, Mr. Bez is tall,
grave and dignified. He seems rather stern to a stranger, but,
upon acquaintance, is known as a fair, generous and kind-hearted
gentleman. He is always at his post, when the battle-cry re-
, sounds through our Legislative Halls, and will not flinch or shirk
from his duty.

104 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. HENRY O. BILLINGS.

The subject of this article was born at Alton, Illinois, Sep-
tember 20th, 1850, his father then being an active and influential
attorn ey-at-law. In professional matters, Mr. Billings followed
in the footsteps of his illustrious parent, and is a lawyer of con-
siderable note and fine accomplishments. His literary education
was acquired in the common schools of the city in which he was
born, and Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri; his pro-
fessional knowledge has been derived from careful reading and
a course of study in the Albany Law School. He is not a church
member, but affiliates with the following secret orders: Masonic
of the degree of Knight Templar; Odd Fellows, and Knights of
Pythias. In politics, he is a confirmed Democrat, from time,
"whereof his mind runneth not to the contrary," and he will not
"run to the contrary," so long as the principles of the party
please him so well as they now do. He was elected to the Gen-
eral Assemblv, as a Representative, in 1880, and reflected in
1882) running considerably ahead of the regular ticket), from
the Forty-first District. He is a man who appreciates the beau-
tiful, in all that is done or said, and the inanimate and animate
things that are. He dresses well and stylishly, is not above the
average height of man, dark in complexion, and quite handsome
in appearance, wearing a full beard. He is shrewd, polite and
generous — a man who is best liked upon close acquaintance—
thoroughly dignified, yet social in demeanor.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 105

HON. THOMAS G. BLACK.

He was born in Columbia, Tennessee, June 1st, 1825, to
William Black and Mary, his parents, the maiden name of the
latter having been Vaughn. His father was a farmer, and,
although this fact may attach to most of the sketches of his
compeers in the House of Representatives, it adds to the
evidences of worth of every other one of the number, even as it
does to this one. -He, who rises from the humble station of a
farmer's boy, to a place in the Legislative Assembly of this
State, has bridged a mighty chasm, yet few reach this office of
honor, except they have had the noble experiences and suffered
the pangs of self denial, which characterized the lives of
farmer's sons, a quarter of a century since. He came to Illi-
nois in 1864, and settled in Morgan County, finally making his
home in Quincy, Adams County, in 1849. He possesses a very
excellent education, the result of good schools and an inquiring
mind. He is a graduate of the Louisville, Kentucky, Medical
College, and is engaged in the practice of his profession at
Clayton, Illinois. He enlisted, as Captain, in the Third Missouri
Cavalry, during the war, served three years, and was mustered
out as a Colonel. He is a member of the Christian Church, and
a Mason and Odd Fellow, in good standing. He was a Repre-
sentative in the Thirtieth, and now occupies the same position in
the Thirty-third General Assembly, having been elected as a
minority candidate. In person, he is large and portly, gruff, yet
kind. He is a pleasant and convincing debater, and generally
manages to get his bills, professional and legislative, safely
placed among the things that are. He dreads defeat and enjoys
victory, with the most extreme feelings of disgust or pleasure, as
the case may justify.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. HENRY M. BOARDMAN.

Mr. Boardman is a very plain, affable, shrewd, honest and
generous man, of positive opinions, good judgment and a calm
temper. He was born at Pittsford, Rutland County, Vermont,
December 12th, 1832. His grandfather was a ship-carpenter on
board a man-of-war during the Revolution, and his father was a
farmer. Mr. Boardman came to Illinois in 1854, locating at
Joliet, where he remained but one year, removing to Paw-paw,
DeKalb County, where he now resides. His education was .ob-
tained in the common school and Manchester High School, in
his native New England State. He is a member of the Congre-
gational. Church, but not of any secret society. He is a farmer
by occupation — a successful one, too, owning four hundred and
thirty-seven acres of land in DeKalb County, and nearly as much
in Iowa. He is a Republican in politics, and is not ashamed of
the fact, or afraid to cross swords, metaphorically speaking, with
any one, who opposes his party. He has served the people of
his locality as Township Assessor, for eight years, and, as a
member of the Board of Supervisors, five years. He was elected
to the House of Representatives in 1882, as one of the majority
members from the Seventeenth District. He is the very em-
bodiment of energy and quiet, good humor, and, in personal
appearance, beai's a somewhat remarkable resemblance to General
Ulysses S. Grant. He is one of the guardians of the people's
interests, who will perform his duty well.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 107

HON. WILLIAM H. BOYER.

- The subject of this sketch, who represents the Forty-ninth
District, in the Thirty-third General Assembly, was born in
Spencer County, Indiana, February 5th, 1851. His parents were
Lewis W. and Cynthia Ann Bpyer, both of whom were Ameri-
cans. His father, at the time of the birth of William H , was a
well-to-do farmer. Mr. Boyer received his early education at
the Glendale Academy, of his native county, and, later on, at-
tended one term at the Hartville University, and, also, one term
at the State Normal School, of Missouri. In 1874, he removed
to Illinois, and located at Elizabeth town, where he began the
study of law, in the office of Hon. W. S. Morris. In 1876, he was
admitted to practice at the bar, and, soon afterwards, became the
partner of his preceptor, W. S. Morris, who is a Senator in this
General Assembly. Mr. Boyer has always been a Republican,
and the present office is the first public position he has ever held.
He was elected Representative over his competitor, Judge Bow-
man, of Shawneetown, receiving a clear majority of five hundred
votes. Mr. Boyer is a member of the Ancient Order of United
Workmen, and is, also, a Mason. In appearance, he is tall and
shapely built. He is a talented speaker, and is a young man,
who gives promise of a bright career in the political world.

108 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. F. E. W. BRINK.

This gentleman was born in Prussia, March 17th, 1827, his
father being at that time a farmer. He came to the United
States in September, 1844, first locating in Illinois, but afterward
removing to New Orleans, Louisiana. He remained in the South
for seven years, finally returning to the Sucker State, and settling
in Washington County, near Hoyleston, where he now resides.
He was graduated at the College of Minden, Prussia. He is
now engaged in milling and farming, having entered the milling
business twelve years ago. Mr. Brink is a member of the
Evangelical Church, but holds no affiliation with any secret
order. He is a Democrat, in politics, having been one before the
war, becoming a Republican in 1860, and returning to his first
love in 1876, during the Tilden Campaign. The reasons for
these changes are sufficient, in our opinion, in both cases, and
our esteem for the man is much enhanced by the fact that he
sought to vote for principles, and did not hesitate to forsake the
parties, which failed to practice the principles by which he was
guided. Mr. Brink lias held several local offices of honor and
trust, and was elected State Senator in 1876, serving four years.
In 1882, he was elected to the House of Representatives, running
five hundred votes ahead of the strongest man, other than him-
self, on the ticket. Mr. Brink bears a striking resemblance, in
both form and feature, to that famous man of Illinois, Stephen
A. Douglas. He is quiet, positive and commanding in bearing,
and is generous and social in disposition.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 109

HON. ALBERT F. BROWN.

This gentleman was born at Brimfield, Hampden County,
Massachusetts, in September, 1819, now being one of the oldest
men in either branch of the General Assembly. His parents re-
moved to Ogle County, Illinois, in 1837, and his father, Dauphin
Brown, was a member of the Sixteenth General Assembly of
the Sucker State. Mr. Brown's education was obtained from the
public schools and Wesleyan Academy, of Massachusetts. He
has followed the occupation of occupations — producing food for
the people — all of the many years of his life, even yet in his
old age, directing the affairs of his highly-cultivated and. excel-
lently improved farm. His farm consists of six hundred and
forty acres of land, and he is largely interested in stock dealing
and breeding of fine stock. He is not a member of any secret
society; but is a Congregationalist in religion. He is a Republi-
can— was one of the founders of the first party organization, at
Stillman Valley, his present home, and has never known any
good reason for changing his convictions, or bestowing his suf-
frage elsewhere, since that date. He has been a member of the
County Board of Supervisors, of Ogle County, for six years,
two of which, found him filling the office of Chairman. He
was elected to the House of Representatives in 1880 and 1882,
from the Tenth District, and is one of the old men whose wis-
dom will be a necessary and proper check upon the enthu-
siastic measures of those who are yet in their youth. He is
medium in stature, strong, hearty, kind and benevolent. He is
very deliberate in both speech and action, and is as generous in
heart, as a woman.

110 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. BEN. F. CALDWELL.

The subject of this sketch, is a man of extensive wealth and
political and financial influence. He was born in Greene County ,.
Illinois, August 2d, 1848. His father was a farmer, and Ben
followed the parental precedents, in choosing his occupation.
Mr. Cald well's parents came to Sangamon County in 1853, locat-
ing upon a tract of land, which is now a portion of his farm.
He was educated in the public schools of the village of Chat-
ham, and acquired some of the most valuable experiences of his
life, upon the farm, where the principal portion of his youth was
spent. May 27th, 1873, he married Miss Julia F. Cloyd, one of
the most estimable young ladies of Chatham, by whom he now
has two children — Mary Jane, born March 20th, 1874, and John
Harvey, born September 9th, 1877. After their marriage, Mr.
Cald well and his wife made a tour to Europe, in which they
traveled, visiting the principal points of interest, for a period of
six months. He is a Past Master in Masonry, and a Past Noble
Grand in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and he is
greatly esteemed by the members of both these benevolent or-
ganizations. In politics, he is a pronounced Democrat, from
conviction, rather than prejudice. He was elected to the House
of Representatives in 1882, by a handsome majority. As a
farmer and financier, Mr. Caldwell has been remarkably success-
ful. His farm near Chatham, is one of the finest and best im-
proved in his county. His residence is spacious in proportions,,
and palatial in furnishing and appointments. He also owns large
interests in banking property, being President of the Bank of
Chatham, and Vice President of the Farmers' National Bank of
Springfield. He has served two terms as a member, and one
term as Chairman of the County Board of Supervisors. He is
liberal and obliging in disposition, handsome in person, and
genial and kind in his intercourse with the public. With all of
his financial and political cares, he loves his family dearly. His.
constituents are justly proud of him.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 1H

HON. WILLIAM F CALHOUN.

Mr. Calhoun was born in Elaine, Perry County, Pennsylvania,
November 21st, 1844. His father was a hard working and skill-
ful cabinet-maker. In October, 1865, Mr. Calhoun came to
Illinois, locating first at LaSalle, from which place he removed
to Champaign, and from there to Farmer City, and, afterward,
to Clinton, in DeWitt County, where he has since resided. He
obtained his education in the public schools of Pennsylvania,
being graduated from Mt. Pisgah Academy. Mr. Calhoun served
an apprenticeship in dental surgery and mechanical denistry,
under Dr. Joseph Smith, of Ottawa. He was engaged in prac-
ticing his chosen profession, when elected a Representative to
the Thirty-third General Assembly. He was a member of the
One Hundred and Thirty-third Regiment of Pennsylvania Vol-
unteers, and reenlisted in 1864, in the Twentieth Pennsylvania
Cavalry, serving under Gen. Phil. Sheridan until the end of the
war. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and
Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Mr. Calhoun is a Repub-
lican, because he believes the enforcement of the principles of
that party, to be in the interest of the whole people. He has
served as Mayor of Farmer City, in his county, member of the
Board of Education of his city, and was elected to the Lower
House in 1882, by a very gratifying majority. In person, he is
of average stature, sandy in complexion, except his beard, which
is of a rich and beautiful reddish-brown color. He is a pleasant
conversationalist, forcible debater, and a social and intelligent
gentleman, who attends to his own affairs and expects everybody
else to do likewise. He was married to Miss .Blanche Derthick,
in August, 1869, and now has three daughters, Maude, Nellie and
Kate.

112 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES,

HON. WILLIAM J. CALHOUN.

Mr. Calhoun is tall and well proportioned, sandy in complex-
ion, polite and social in his dealings with others, and able, kind
and generous. He was born at Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, October
5th, 1848, his father being a merchant, at the time of this im-
portant epoch in William's history. The family soon afterward
moved to Newcastle, Pennsylvania, where it resided for a few
years, after which another removal established it at New
Brighton, in the same State. William afterward removed to
Mahoning County, Ohio. In 1869,' he came to Illinois, locating
at Arcola; but soon afterward removed to Danville, his present
home. His education was acquired at Poland Academy, Poland,
Ohio, and by unremitted personal effort. He is a lawyer by
profession, having pursued his studies under the direction of J.
B. Mann, his present partner. He passed through the last two
years of the war, as a private, in Company "B," of the Nine-
teenth Ohio Regiment. His local reputation is excellent, and
his constituents honored the office, rather than the man, when
they elected him to the House of Representatives, in 1882. He
is a Republican, of well-defined views, and is an excellent
reasoner and fluent speaker. Mr. Calhoun holds no fellowship
with any religious denomination. He is a Free Mason, of the
degree of Knight Templar, and a Knight of Honor. He is a man
who speaks and votes his convictions, irrespective of conse-
quences, and is regarded as one of the safest, and most conserva-
tive partisans in the House. He is a man whom money or prom-
ises cannot influence against his impressions, when once formed.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 1.13

HON. JAMES F. CANNIFF.

This gentleman was born in Orange County, New York, June
15th, 1850. His father was a farmer and stock-raiser. When
James was but three years of age, his parents came West, locat-
ing in the city of St. Louis, where they remained but one year,
after which, they established a home in Monroe County, Illinois.
The education of James was something in which his parents were
greatly interested, and, after the usual course in the public
schools of his county, he was graduated from the College of the
Christian Brothers, in St. Louis. The dreams of Jimmy Canniff
were of libraries, orators, learned men, courts, judges and juries,
and, after a careful course of study, he was admitted to the Bar
in 1878. He then located at Waterloo, Illinois, where he now
resides, and pursues the labors incident to his profession. He is
an Odd Fellow and Knight of Honor, but holds no felloAvship in
any of the religious denominations. Although a young man,
Mr. Canniff is very wealthy, owning three farms, which aggre-
gate no less than eight hundred and seventy-five acres. He is a
Democrat in politics, but has never held any public office, until
elected to the House of Representatives in 1882, by a very hand-
some majority. In person, Mr. Canniff is below the medium
stature, and rather slight in physical proportions, has dark eyes
and hair, and wears a moustache. He is very cool and deliberate
in conversation or debate, cautious in his movements and un-
alterable in a position, once assumed. He is friendly in his
intercourse with the public, and dignified and manly in the per-
formance of his public duties. He is as strong a man, when
integrity and good judgment are in the balance, as there is in
the House.

Ill BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

II OX. WALTER E. CARLItf.

Mr. Carlin was born at Carrollton, Greene County, Illinois,.
April llth, 1844, his father being Circu't Clerk of the county, at
that time. His father owned large landed interests in Greene-
County, and was a soldier in the Blackhawk War. His uncle,.
Thomas Carlin, was Governor of Illinois from 1838 to 1842. In
1870, Mr. Carlin removed from Carrollton to Mt. Vernon, from
which place he returned to Jerseyville, in 1872, and has resided
in that city ever since. His education began in the district
schools of Greene County, and he afterward attended the school
of the Christian Brothers, in St. Louis, and the University of
Wisconsin, at Madison. He is now engaged in the banking bus-
iness, at Jerseyville, the style of the firm being Carlin & Bagley.
He owns a large farm, near his home. When seventeen years
of age, Mr. Carlin enlisted in the Thirty-eighth Illinois Infantry,,
was made Second and First Lieutenants, successively, and com-
missioned Captain before he was nineteen; but declined the
honor. He served on the staff of Gen. Carlin, his brother, in
various capacities, being Adjutant at one time, and had two
horses shot under him, at the battle of Chicamauga. He was
commissioned Major of the Fifteenth Battalion, Illinois National
Guards, by Governor Cullom, in 1878. He is a member of the
Presbyterian Church, and a veiy prominent Odd Fellow, having
passed all of the chairs in the Grand Encampment of Illinois,
and is now serving his second term as Representative to the
Sovereign Grand Lodge. He is a Democrat, and has held several
local offices, having been Alderman of his City four yea'rs, and
Chairman of the County Board of Supervisors, the same length
of time. When he was chosen to the latter office, the county
was $65,000 in debt, and, during his four terms, this debt was
paid without increasing the tax levy. He owns considerable
business property in Jerseyville, and extensive estates in Nebras-
ka. He is rather small; but well pioportioned; has light hair
and a brown beard, and, although somewhat sedate, is polite andl
considerate. He is an excellent financier and parliamentarian..

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 115

HON. GRANDISON CLARK.

Mr. Clark was born in Marion County, Indiana, July 8th, 1829.
His father was then a farmer and blacksmith. The subject of
this sketch came to Illinois in 1850, and located a land-warrant,
granted him for service in the Mexican War, in Jasper County.
His education was acquired in the common district schools, and
he followed his father's choice of a calling, and became a farmer,
stock-breeder and stock-shipper. He does not hold communion
with any church ; but is an Odd Fellow and Free Mason. He
is now a very wealthy man, owning over seven hundred acres of
land, well improved and profitably stocked and cultivated. He
was a volunteer in the Fifth Indiana Regiment during the Mexi-
can War. He enlisted for a three years' term of service, but
served until the close of the war. Mr. Clark is a very strong
man, mentally and physically, and is one of the honest sons of
toil, whom it is necessary to have in the Legislature, to keep the
visionary schemes of lawyers and merchants within legitimate
bounds, and to protect the State finances from misappropriation.
Such Representatives as he is, lend a wholesome practicability to
legislation, and are -heard in behalf of the oppressed of the
country in all cases, where corporations seek to exceed their
powers and legal privileges. He is an old-time Democrat, and
is proud of it. He is large and portly, and possesses an even,
almost stolid temper. He has a kind and benevolent face, and is
probably as generous and noble as he seems.

116 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. MICHAEL CLEARY.

This gentleman was born in Ireland, February 9th, 1840, his
father being a farmer. Soon after the birth of Michael, the
family came to the United States, settling in LaSalle County,
Illinois, where the public schools furnished this gentleman with
an education. He was a very energetic and persevering boy, and
largely supplied, by individual effort, what was denied him by
fortune. He chose from all of the numerous avenues to fortune
and fame, the rugged, but sure pathway, which leads across the
fields of a farm. He realized that there could be no more inde-
pendent occupation — nor one more honorable than that of the
husbandman, so he bared his strong and vigorous arms, gazed
for a moment upon the many obstacles in his way, and, with a
hopeful heart and determined purpose set about winning gold
and glory, by the sweat of his brow. He now owns no less than
seven hundred acres of excellent land in the vicinity of Odell,
Livingston County, and has it well improved and under excellent
cultivation, This is a fair example of what can be accomplished
by a young man of good health and true grit. Mr. Cleary is a
Catholic in religion, and does not belong to any secret society.
He has been a Democrat ever since he became a voter, and is
just such a persevering and energetic politician as he is a farmer.
He has been Supervisor of his Township for nineteen years, and
was elected to the House of Representatives in 1882, over Joseph
Berger, by four thousand majority. He represents the
Eighteenth District. In person, Mr. Cleary is a very large and
well developed man — one who is positively handsome because of
his physical powers. He is a man of excellent humor, and
genuine kindness of heart, but in debate and business, he is no
less decisive and unwavering than he is good-natured in ordinary
conversation. He is a strong and reliable Representative.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 117

HON. HENRY 0. CLEAVELAND.

Mr. Cleaveland was born in Woodstock, Windsor County,
Vermont, October 'J5th, 1843. His father was a machinist by
trade, and, in this regard, Mr. Cleaveland's birth is on a level
with that of most great men of our day. The farmer and
mechanic stand side by side in the parentage of brilliant minds
and noble hearts. The subject of this sketch came to Illinois in
1864, locating in the flourishing city of Rock Island. His edu-
cation was obtained in the common schools of the Green Moun-
tain State, and he is justly proud of its practical and substantial
character. Mr. Cleaveland is now engaged in the insurance bus-
iness. He was one of the brave men who assisted in quelling
the Rebellion. He enlisted as a volunteer, on the first call, and,
at the expiration of his term of service, reenlisted in the Sixth
Vermont Regiment, as a private. He was in some of the hottest
battles of the war. In the Battle of the Wilderness, he was
severely wounded in both thighs. He was mustered out in 1866,
as Quartermaster. He is a Mason of high degree, being a Past
Master, Past High Priest, Past Commander, and one of the
Grand officers of the State jurisdiction. He is also a prominent
Odd Fellow, Knight of Pythias, and United Workman, and is
Deputy Great Sachem in the Improved Order of Red Men. He
is a staunch Republican, and has held the offices of Township
Collector, Supervisor, and member of the Board of Education, in
his city. He was electe.d Representative, in 1882, by a hand-
some majority. Mr. Cleaveland is what is termed a self-made
man. His boyhood was spent in incessant toil and voluntary
study. The wounds, which he received during the war, made
him a cripple for life, and, although he seems to move about
with ease, he often suffers intensely from the indescribable aches
and pains which they produce. In person, he is large, dark in
complexion, and becoming. He is a man of broad charity in
'opinion, and liberal views. In his intercourse with the people,
he is genial and common-place.

118 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. MARK J. CLINTON.

Mr. Clinton's eyes first saw light on the Emerald Isle, June
2d, 1844. His father was a farmer, and came to Chicago when
his son was but four years of age; so little Mark's experiences
with the oppressive character of Irish land-lords is rather limited,
but, being a man of noble sympathies and honorable motives, he
is greatly incensed at the course of government affairs in his
native country. His education, which is extensive and very
substantial, was acquired in the public schools of Chicago. He
has been engaged in mercantile pursuits ever since he attained
a sufficient age to make his services desirable. He is a Catholic
in religious faith, and is Secretary of Division No. 20, of the
Ancient Order of Hibernians. To say that he is a Democrat, is
but to state what the reader must have already inferred. As
such, he was one of the Supervisors of Cook County, in 1869-70,
occupying a place on each of some of the most important com-
mittees of that body. In 1882, he was elected to the House of
Representatives from the Ninth Chicago District, by a majority
of about two thousand votes. Mr. Clinton is possessed of much
of the shrewdness and native wit, for which the Irish are noted,
and does not hesitate to employ it in conversation and debate.
His heart is with the laboring people, and [his voice will not be
drowned by the clamor of monopolists. In person, he is of
medium height and sturdy, being,'in fact, a well developed speci-
men of the genus homo. He is gentle and considerate in his
intercourse with children, and suffering humanity of all classes
and conditions, and possesses those noble characteristics of man-
hood— generosity of opinion and justice toward all men, which
render an ordinary man, a giant in the eyes of the populace.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 119

HON. JOHN H. COATS.

This gentleman was born at Petersburg, Pike County, Indiana,
.'September 23d, 1843, his fathe'r being a farmer at that time.
Mr. Coats suffered the misfortune of siistaining the loss of both
father and mother at a very early age, and has been obliged to
battle his way through the world without the protection of the
former, or the kind counsel and noble sympathy of the latter —
the best friend man ever possessed. He came to Illinois in 1844,
locating in Pike County, where he resided until 1851, when he
removed to Scott County, his present home. His education is
such as the common schools of his day afforded, improved and
extended by personal effort. He was a soldier in the late strug-
gle between the North and South, serving duringthe war, and pass*
ing six months and twelve days of the time, in the environments
of the soldiers' horror — Andersonville Prison. He is a Mason
and Odd Fellow, and a Minister of the Gospel, in the Christian
Church. He is a Republican, heart, brain and soul, because he
believes it right to be so, and is the minority member from the
Thirty-seventh District. He owns a grocery and queensware
establishment, under the firm name of Coats & Graves. One of
the incidents — or rather series of incidents — in his army life,
which we deem worthy of mention, was his three efforts at
escape from Andersonville, two of which resulted in his being
run down by blood-hounds and re-captured ; but the third enabled
him to elude his pursuers and reach the Union lines, at Vicks-
burg. The reckless disregard of the dangers, attending an at-
tempt at escape from that prison, confirm the belief that its
horrors were more than death. Mr. Coats is a very generous
and well posted man, who is not afraid to say or do what he con-
scientiously endorses as right. He is honest and moral, shrewd
and witty.

120 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HOX. JOHN H. COLLIER.

One of the most active workers in the Thirty-third General
Assembly, is the gentleman whose name heads this sketch. Mr.
Collier was born in New York State, in March, 1844. He was
the son of Joseph and Mary DeFoi rest Collier. His father, who
was a farmer, together with his family, moved to Illinois in
1855, and located at Antioch, Lake County, and from there, in
1870, the subject of our sketch moved to Ford County, and en-
gaged in the hardware business, and he is still following the same
business, in that county. Mr. Collier's education was obtained
in the common schools of this State. He has held many local
offices, and was elected a member of the Thirtieth, Thirty-sec-
ond and Thirty-third General Assemblies. In 1862, Mr. Collier
enlisted, as a private, in the Ninety-sixth Illinois Volunteers.
He served until the close of the war, in 1866, and, when mus-
tered out of the service, he was Captain, commanding a company.
He has always been a Republican. Mr. Collier is a Mason and
Knight Templar, and is a member of the Grand Army of the
Republic, at present is the Inspector for the Department of Illi-
nois. Mr. Collier resides at Gibson City, Ford County, and rep-
resents the Eighteenth District, in the Legislature. His oppo-
nent for this office was Joseph Berger, Greenback and Prohibi-
tion candidate, who was defeated by a very large majority. In
appearance, Mr. Collier is tall and portly.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 121

HON. EDWARD DEAN COOKE.

Mr. Cooke was born in Dubuque County, Iowa, October 17th,
1849. His father was a farmer, and Edward was employed in
working at the honorable avocation of his father, except during
terms of school, until he had attained his sixteenth year, when
he began clerking in various lines of business, finally becoming
teller in a bank. He soon tired of this kind of employment,
however, and determined to avail himself of an opportunity to
acquire more than a limited common school education. He ac-
cordingly entered the law department of the Columbian College,
at Washington, D. C., from which he was graduated in 1873.
He was soon afterward admitted to ;.the Bar, in the District of
Columbia and Iowa, and has since been practicing in Chicago.
The name of the firm is Beam & Cooke, He was elected to the
House of Representatives in 1882, from the Fifth Chicago Dis-
trict. He is a Stalwart Republican, a Unitarian in religious
views, and a Master Mason. In person, he is well proportioned,
somewhat below the average in stature. He is not remarkable
for warm social qualities, and is rather crisp in speech, and more
or less moody in disposition. He is undoubtedly a very excellent
lawyer and a studious man.

122 BlOGBAPHICAL SKETCHES,

HON. EDWARD E. COWPERTHWAIT.

Mr. Cowperthwait was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,
his father and grandfather being farmers and extensive land
owners near Morristown, New Jersey, at a village bearing the
family name. In religious belief, his parents were Orthodox
Quakers. The subject came to Illinois in 1870, and worked by
the month, for Alexander Potts, and other prominent Christian
County farmers, devoting his attention to books, whenever the
opportunity was presented. He afterward taught country schools
for five years, and finally pursued his studies in the Quaker City
College, of Philadelphia, in branches, of which he had acquired
some knowledge, when a boy. He afterward read law with J.
M. Birse, of Assumption, Illinois, his present place of residence.
He enlisted in the Second Regiment of Pennsylvania Artillery
Volunteers, at the age of fifteen years, as a three years man, and
served his full term, being twice wounded before Petersburg,
Virginia, and receiving commendations from his commanders for
his gallant conduct. He is a member of the Christian Church,
and is also a Free Mason, holding membership in Morrisonville
Lodge, No. 681, Morrisonville, Illinois. He is a thorough Re-
publican in politics, and has held the office of Police Magistrate
of the village, where he resides, and was elected to the House of
Representatives in 1882, on that ticket. He believes in adhering
to party measures in State and National affairs, but not so
determined in local matters. He was the minority candidate
from the Fortieth District, but the ticket was bolted by some
Republicans, who combined to defeat him and elect John M.
Miller, an independent candidate, but they failed by two thou-
sand and thirty-seven and one-half votes, after the hottest
campaign ever known in this section of country. Mr. Cowperth-
wait is essentially a self-made man — one of great energy — who
does not shrink from duty, or despair under discouraging con-
ditions.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 123

HOK FLEMIN W. COX.

Mr. Cox is a Buckeye by virtue of his having first made his
appearance among men in Coshocton County, Ohio, which event
came to pass September 9th, 1833. His father and mother were
farmers and Democrats, as well as Germans, by descent, as he
jovially expresses it. His education was acquired in the
ordinary public schools of his country, and improved by his
experiences, as teacher arid County Superintendent of Public
Instruction, which last office he held in Lawrence County, Illi-
nois, from 1873 until 1881. He is a farmer, by occupation, and
a good one, too. He is not a member of any church or secret
society. He is a Democrat by inheritance, education, and con-
viction that the principles of his party are the basis of a repub-
lican form of government. It is rather a significant fact in his
favor, that his first majority for the office of School Superinten-
dent, was eighteen, and his last two hundred and twenty-five.
In addition to his farming interests and public duties, Mr. Cox
deals in agricultural implements, in their proper season. His
present place of residence is Bridgeport, Lawrence County, Illi-
nois, in the Forty-sixth District, from which he was elected to
the House of Representatives, by an overwhelming majority in
1882. In person, he is portly, and not above the average stature.
He is dark in complexion, plain and neat in dress, hearty and
generous in disposition, and uniformly happy and courteous.

124 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. CLAYTON E. CRAFTS.

Mr. Crafts was born in Auburn, Geanga County, Ohio, July
8th, 1848. He does not differ from a majority of the members of
his branch of the Assembly, in the occupation to which he was
born. His father was a farmer, and his grandfather was a
farmer in his day, being the first or second settler of the town in
which Mr. Crafts was born. Grandfather Crafts was about the
only man who was considered competent to draft legal docu-
ments in his neighborhood, and his services were in great de-
mand. The father of our Clayton, was about the only Democrat
in Auburn for some years, and had many a wordy war with his
neighbors, as a result. Mr. Crafts was educated in what is now
known as Hiram College, justly renowned for its association with
the memory of the martyred Garfield, and is also a graduate of
the Cleveland (Ohio) Law School, having been admitted to the
Bar in 1868. A portion of his legal study was pursued in the
office of Hon. John J. Van Allen, a somewhat celebrated lawyer
and noted politician, of Watkins, New York. He is now en-
gaged in the practice of his profession, in Chicago, but resides
in the surburban village of Austin. Mr. Crafts is a member of
the Christian Church, and of the Iroquois Club, a political and
social organization of Democrats, in Chicago. He has held many
minor offices of honor and trust in his county^ and is held in high
esteem by his party friends, being now a member of the County
Democratic Central Committee. He has never been a member
of any political party, except the Democratic, aiid did not, like
some of his fellows, run after false gods, in off years. He lost
his office and library in the Chicago fire, and, although, well read
in all branches of his profession, confines himself exclusively to-
civil cases. He is the minority Representative from his district,
and polled a larger vote than any of his competitors. He is in
comfortable circumstances, as a result of successful speculation
in surburban real estate. He is above medium stature; wears a
full beard, and bears himself in a dignified and gentlemanly
manner. He is earnest and forcible in d'ebate, and kind, con
siderate and generous in his social relations.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 125

HON. JOHN H. CRANDALL.

In person, Mr. Crandall weighs one hundred and sixty-five
pounds, and has a full red beard. He was born in Tazewell
County, Illinois, June 9th, 1845, and is now in his thirty-eighth
year. He is, in fact, in the very prime of excellent and estima-
ble manhood. He does not differ from a majority of the members
of the House of Representatives of the Thirty-third General
Assembly, being essentially the sturdy product of a pioneer
farm, and the valued progeny of one of the pioneer agricul-
turalists of the State of Illinois. He possesses a very good edu-
cation, which he acquired in the common schools of his -State,
and the Normal University, at Bloomington. In choosing his
occupation, he followed in the immediate footsteps of his parental
ancestors, espousing farm life and engaging largely in rearing
and dealing in fine breeds of live stock. He is not a church
member, but is a member in good standing in a Lodge of Free
Mason. In politics, he is an unswerving Democrat, having been
one of the Board of Supervisors of his county, and held other
local offices. He was a member of the House of Representatives
of the Thirty-second General Assembly, and was reflected in
1882 by a very satisfactory majority. His farm is a large one,
consisting of no less than five hundred acres, upon which roam
several herds of high-bred cattle. In disposition, he is very
commonplace, affable and polite. He is an entertaining speaker,
and is one of those men, who lengthen life by indulging their
generous natures, and perpetrating harmless, but amusing jokes.

126 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. SETH F. CREWS.

This, one of the most eloquent members of the House of Rep-
resentatives, was born in Wayne County, Illinois, in March,
1847, being now thirty-six years of age. Andrew and Mary J.
Crews, nee Vandeveer, his parents, resided upon a farm at the
time of his birth, and were unable to afford their son a better
education than that provided by the common school, in the im-
mediate vicinity of their home. Young Crews was an ardent
student, however, and, at the early age jof seventeen, rose from
the station of pupil to that of teacher, pursuing the latter pro-
fession until he had attained his majority, when he entered the
law office of Hayward & Kitchell, at Olney. He was admitted
to the Bar in 1870, and soon afterward became a partner with
the present Attorney-General of Illinois, Hon. James H. Mc-
Cartney, at Fairfield, in his native county. In 1874, however,
this co-partnership was dissolved, and Mr. Crews established him-
self in Mt. Vernon, where he and Hon. Charles T. Strattan, who
style themselves, Crews & Strattan, enjoy the largest and most
valuable clientage of all like firms in the city. Mr. Crews,,
when quite small, lost one of his lower limbs by disease, and is
obliged to resort to crutches, as a means of locomotion. Not-
withstanding this misfortune, and his limited advantages in
youth, there is not a brighter mind than that of Mr. Crews, in
the Thirty-third General Assembly. He is a Methodist, Royal
Templar of Temperance, Odd Fellow, and Knight of Honor.
Of the latter society, he is Past Grand Dictator of this State
jurisdiction. He is a sound Republican, and was elected County
Attorney of his county, some years since, overcoming a Demo-
cratic majority of six hundred. He is the minority member
from his district. He is of medium height, portly, and has sandy
hair. He is polite and affable, and wins friends by his mag-
netism and eloquence.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 12t

HON. JOHN H. CROCKER.

The subject of this sketch was born at Deny, New Hampshire,.
July 9th, 1829. His father, John, and mother, formerly Miss
Mary N. Pilsbury, resided upon a farm at that time, and little
John's first experiences in life were calculated to give him a thirst
for knowledge, and ambition to become an honored and respected
man of influence. His dreams were dreams of wealth and fame,
as are the musings of many other farmers' boys. In 1839, his
parents came to Illinois, locating at Jacksonville, where their
son was educated in the common schools and the Jacksonville
College. His occupation is that of a banker and grain dealer.
In religious belief, he is a Presbyterian, and he belongs to the
Masonic Order, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and
Royal Templars of Temperance. He is a very wealthy man,
owning an undivided interest in one thousand acres of Illinois
lands, and is the senior member of the firm of Crocker & Company,
bankers at Maroa, Illinois. In politics, he is an unquestionable
and unswerving Republican, having espoused the cause of that
party upon attaining his majority, and never varied in political
faith. He is a shrewd financier, a popular citizen and an intel-
ligent and respected Representative in the General Assembly,
lie was elected from the Twenty-ninth District, by a majority of
about eight hundred votes, over Doctor Miller, his political
opponent. In person, he is of medium height, dark in com-
plexion, polite and affable in his intercourse with the people^
and firm, incisive and earnest in debate. His place of residence
is Maroa, Macon County, Illinois.

128 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HOK -EDWARD L. CRONKRITE.

This prominent member of the House of Representatives was
born in Rensaeler County, New York, in June, 1832. His father
was a farmer, and his grandfather was one of the noble Sons of
Columbia, who fought for American independence throughout
the whole period of the Revolutionary War. Mr. • Cronkrite
came to Illinois in 1859, locating in Freeport, Stephenson County,
where he engaged in merchandising. His education is academic,
having been acquired at Troy Conference Academy, West Poult-
ney, Vermont. He regularly attends services at the Presbyte-
rian Church in his city, although he is not a member. He is a
Thirty-second Degree Mason, and has been elected to the Thirty-
third, the highest degree in the Order, which will be conferred
upon him in September of the present year. He is an Odd Fel-
low of the Royal Purple Degree, and is the presiding officer of
his lodge, and Uniform Degree Camp. He is also a member of
the Patriarchal Circle, Ancient Order of United Workmen, and
the L. of H., a Uniformed Degree of the last named order. He
is a Democrat of the first water, and has been Alderman and
v ayor of his city, and has also been a member of the House of
Representatives since 1872, except in 1878, when he was the
Democratic nominee for State Treasurer, against General J. C.
Smith, the present incumbent. He is the minority Representa-
tive from his district, and is generally regarded as one of the
very strongest men on the Democratic side, perhaps in the entire
House. In person, he is large and portly, has an open and agree-
able countenance, and is one of the most genial and affable
members of the Legislature. He is a man of great social qual-
ities, and has an intellect well adapted to his executive energies.
He is a powerful speaker and a most convincing debater.

BlOGBAPHICAL SKETCHES. 129

HON. ALFRED S. CURTIS.

The subject of this sketch was born in Ulster County, New
York, December 9th, 1816. His father was a farmer at the time
of this gentleman's birth. In 1858, Mr. Curtis came to Illinois,
locating in Oneida, Knox County, where he resides at present.
In education, Mr. Curtis enjoyed excellent advantages, being a
graduate of that celebrated institution of learning, Yale Col-
lege, of the class of 1838. In 1845, he read law and was ad-
mitted to the Bar in Ohio, where he practiced his profession for
six years ; but gave it up for the equally honorable and more
independent occupation of a farmer, when he came to Illinois.
In his efforts at farming, he has been extraordinarily successful,
having been left fatherless at five years of age, and starting in
life a few years later, with nothing but a sound physical consti-
tution and a limited education as bis capital stock. He is now
a very excellent scholar, and a prominently wealthy man. He
has now practically retired from business, doing a little private
speculating now and then, "just to keep his hand in." He is a
Congregationalist in religion, and a non-affiliating Free Mason.
In political faith, he is a confirmed Republican, having cast his
fortunes with that party, when it came into being, and been
faithful to its principles ever since. He has served as Supervisor
of his township, five years ; Mayor of his city, twelve years ;
member of the District School Board, fifteen years, and was a
Representative in the Thirtieth General Assembly. He was
elected to the Thirty-third General Assembly by a majority
over the Democratic candidate of nearly one thousand votes.
He is careful in assuming positions on the various questions
which arise in the Legislature ; but when he once ascertains
what he believes to be the proper view of a given case, he stands
by it with the vigor of a much younger man. He is not above
medium height, is hearty and jovial in disposition, and kind and
generous of heart. He is one of the most valuable members of
this Legislature.

130 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. WILLIAM A. DAY.

This gentleman is one of the finest scholars in the House of
Representatives. He was born at Wilmington, Delaware, in
June, 1850. His father was afarmer, of Revolutionary ancestry,
and a thorough-going, industrious and prudent one, at that.
With that kind of ancestry, united with a strong heart, brilliant
mind and willing hands, it is not wonderful that William has
risen to eminence in the councils of his State. He is a lawyer
by profession, having read law with Judge Cunningham, of
Urbana, Illinois, and being graduated from the Law Department
of Harvard University, in 1872. He has met with phenominal
success in his legal 'undertakings, and is one of the leading
lawyers of Illinois, to-day. He now resides in the city of
Champaign, and owns valuable landed estates in the adjacent
country, all of which he has made by his own efforts. He is an
uncompromising Democrat; has been City Attorney of Cham-
paign; was a member of the House in the Thirty-first General
Assembly, and is now serving as the minority Representative of
his district, in the Thirty-third. He was one of the delegates
from Illinois, to the Cincinnati National Convention, which nom-
inated Hancock for the Presidency,- in 1880. He is a perfect
gentleman in deportment, dress and carriage, and is considered
one of the very ablest men in the House. Although dignified,
lie is courteous and generous, and is a great favorite with the
members, who enjoy his intimate friendship and esteemed so-
ciety.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 131

HON. WILLIAM H. DEBORD.

This gentleman first saw the light October 1st, 1834, in De-
•catur County, Indiana. His father, Reuben DeBord, was a
farmer, who removed to Shelby County, in the same State, where
lie resided until 1852, when he came to Illinois, locating in
.Jasper County. The education of the gentleman, whose name
is now enrolled upon the journal of the House of Representa-
tives, of Illinois, was acquired in the common schools of his
native State, and the Seminary at Shelbyville, Indiana, he having
received a certificate of qualifications, as a teacher, upon completing
the stipulated course of study. He taught school for some time,
then espoused the mercantile business. In August, 1861, he en-
listed as a private, in Company "H," of the Thirty-eighth Illi-
nois Volunteers. He served over three years, and was mustered
out of the service, as a Second Lieutenant. He is a devout mem-
ber of the Christian Church; but does not affiliate with any of
the so-called secret societies. In connection with his military
career, we cannot refrain from mentioning the fact that he was
captured at the Battle of Chicamauga, and confined in nearly ^,11
of the worst military prisons of the South, except that at Ander-
sonville. He says that the horrors of prison life have never been
told, and that words are incapable of conveying an adequate idea
of them. He is now engaged in farming, and breeding and dealing
in live stock. He has a farm of two hundred acres in Cumber-
land County, where he now resides. He is a strong Republican,
and has held various positions of honor and trust in his county
and township. He has been Assessor of Jasper County, and
Collector of Cumberland. He was elected to the House of Rep-
resentatives, in 1882, by a very handsome majority, and is a
solid and able advocate of the interests of the people. In per-
son, he is not above the average stature, wears a full beard, and
is kind and accommodating in disposition, and methodical in
conversation and debate.

132 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. JAMES E. DOWNING.

He was born February 19th, 1818, in Frederick County r Vir-
ginia. He is another of the great men, who have had an humble
origin. His father was a sturdy Virginia farmer. His parents
removed to Clark County, Indiana, in 1822, and came to Illinois
in 1835, locating in Adams County. The subject of this sketch
is also a farmer. He owns one thousand two hundred acres of
tillable lands, and three hundred acres of good timber. He has
retired from active farm labor, however, and his sons are con-
ducting the business for him. Mr. Downing's education was of
the good, substantial character, to be obtained in a well regulated
country school. He does not affiliate with any church or secret
society. He is a Democrat, born, bred and educated, and has
held various positions of honor and trust in his township, county
and district. He was a member of the County Board of Super-
visors for four years, and served his first term in the House of
Representatives in 1869. Mr. Downing is one of the wealthiest
men in the county, and, unlike most wealthy farmers, possesses
the esteem and good will of his neighbors, to a remarkable
extent. He is not puffed up or self important, as many men of
means become, but, on the contrary, is as social, plain and
common as any one could desire. He is not miserly. He is
generous in both purse and opinion, and does not deem it his duty
or privelege to crush an opponent with the weight of his gold, or
taunt a beggar with his poverty. He is a sturdy specimen of
manhood, at an advanced age. He was elected to the Lower
House in 1882, by a very large plurality. In person, Mr. Down-
ing is a verv hale, old gentleman, with snowy hair. Although
sixty-five years old, he walks erect, and seems to be in full
possession of his mental powers and physical senses. He is a
hearty joker, and bids fair to live many years yet. His presence
in the House is like that of Abraham, of old, among his children
of many generations. His father was ninety-two and his mother
ninety-seven years old, at the time of their respective deaths.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 133

HON. WILLIAM M. DUFFY.

Mr. Duffy was born in Ireland, January 30th, 1835, his father
then being a landlord of a hotel. The subject of our sketch came
to the United States in 1849, locating at Rahway, New Jersey,
where he remained until 1853, when he removed to Illinois, es-
tablishing himself at Peoria, from which place he removed to
San Jose, where he resided until he entered the army, in 1862.
After the war, he settled at San Jose, Illinois, where he now re-
sides. His education was acquired in the common schools of his
native country. While residing in New Jersey he learned the
trade of a harness-maker, afterward traveling extensively, while
pursuing that avocation, as a journeyman. In 1858, he began
cultivating his Mason County farm, and is still engaged in that
noble avocation. In 1862, he recruited a company for the One
Hundred and Eighth Illinois Infantry, and served as its Captain
until the close of the war. He is not a member of any church ;
but is an Odd Fellow, possessing the Encampment and Rebekah
Degrees. He was a War Democrat during the war, and has been
a peace Democrat, ever since. His Democracy has been unfal-
tering and enduring. He has been a member of the Board of
Supervisors for three years, and has held nearly all of the county
offices in his county. He was a member of the Thirty-second
General Assembly, and was reflected in 1882, from the Thirty-
fourth District, by the largest majority given any candidate upon
his ticket. Mr. Duffy is a man of very great local popularity,
and is one of the most uniformly successful politicians in the
House of Representatives. In personal appearance, he is a man
of medium height ; dark in complexion ; wears a full, black
beard, and is one of the best natured, most generous and uni-
formly happy and jovial members of the Assembly. He is a
man, who numbers nearly all his acquaintances as his friends,
and will do what he conceives to be right, irrespective of conse-
quences.

134 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. JOHN F. DUGAN.

This gentleman was born at Gross' Point, Cook County, Illi-
nois, February 18th, 1845. The thriving suburb of Evanston is
now located at that place. His father was a wood dealer and
farmer, who located there in 1836. The family removed to
Wheeling, in the same county, when John was but two years
old, and his brother William, established himself in the grocery
trade, afterward engaging in pork packing, in the city of Chicago.
Mr. Dugan afterward entered the firm which, conducted a large
business on the Board of Trade, in pork and beef, and withdrew
from it in 1873, at which time he engaged in the real estate
business. He was educated in the public schools of Chicago and
Wheeling, afterward being graduated from a Catholic School.
He has been Deputy Assessor and Deputy Collector of Cook
County. Mr. Dugan is a devout Catholic, and a member of the
Ancient Order of Hibernians; also, the Order of Emeralds. He
is an ardent Democrat, and has never done anything inconsistent
with the interests of the party. He is a Representative in the
Thirty-third General Assembly from the Thirteenth Chicago
District, and is, also, a fair representative of the rush, bustle and
business enterprise of the city in which he resides. He was
elected in 1882, running ahead of his ticket, over a thousand
votes. Pie is above the medium in height and stature, has dark
eyes and hair and a light moustache. He is well proportioned
and rather handsome in person; slow and deliberate in speech,,
and scholarly and dignified in carriage. He is very sociable and
polite, and wins friends wherever he makes acquaintances. He
is a man of and for the people, and has just such personal traits
as are well calculated to redound to his honor and the advantage
of his constituents.

..:: (BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 135

HON. WILLIAM H. EMERSON.

Mr. Emerson was born at Richmond, near Cincinnati, Ohio,
September 9th, 1832. His father died while William was very
young. His mother was a grand-daughter of a Huegenot
refugee, from France. He acquired his education by the exer-
cise of privileges afforded by the common schools of his native
State, in the early days of their history. Mr. Emerson's aspira-
tions were commercial in their nature, and, at an early age, he
removed to Cincinnati, where he engaged in mercantile pursuits,
remaining until 1863, when he came to Illinois, locating at Ogle,
Lee County, where he followed merchandising for seven years,
when he finally settled at Astoria, his present place of resi-
dence. He is now chiefly engaged in milling and mining. He
has been a very enterprising and successful business man, and is
equally as enterprising in the Legislative body, of which he is an
honored member. With the exception of one or two positions
in the city government, Mr. Emerson has held no public office,
prior to his election to the House of Representatives, in 1882,
as a Republican. He is a Free Mason, of the degree of Knight
Templar. In 1854, he was married to Miss Elizabeth P.Wilson,
of Richmond, Ohio, and the union has been blessed with seven
children. He is a large and portly man, whose hair is becoming
gray, is actuated by pure motives and deep-rooted convictions ;
but is very polite and pleasant in his dealings with the popu-
lace.

13(5 BIOGRAPHICAL SKKTCIIKS.

HON. MILO ERWIN.

Mr. Erwin was born in Williamson County, Illinois, October
24th, 1847. At the time of the birth of young Milo, his father
was in the army, which was prosecuting the Mexican War. Mr.
Erwin attended the Normal University, at Bloomington, two
years; but had made some progress in a collegiate course at the
Carbondale College, prior to entering the former institution.
Professionally, he is a lawyer, being a graduate of the Legal
Department of the Michigan University. He has, perhaps, as
fine an education as any other member of the House of Repre-
sentatives, and is one of the ablest lawyers in his section of the
State. He is a leading Republican, of Southern Illinois, and has
served four years as City Attorney of Marion, the county seat of
his county. In 1874, he was the nominee of his party for the
State Senate, and, again, in 1878; but, the district being largely
Democratic, he was defeated each time, though by small majori-
ties. He was elected to the House of Representatives, in
1880, and reelected in 1882. He is a Mason and Odd Fellow;
but holds no membership in any church. Mr. Erwin is very
wealthy, owning no less than nine hundred acres of good farm-
ing lands, besides very valuable milling interests. He possesses
a fine literary education, and is the author of a history of his
county, during the bloody period of the vendetta, which gave
that locality such an unsavory reputation in 1873-74-75-76. He
is a large and powerful man, physically and intellectually. He
is dignified in bearing, forcible in debate, and kind and generous
in disposition.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKKTCHKS. 137

HON. JOSEPH H. EWING.

Mr. Ewing was born at Mattoon, Coles County, Illinois,
November 30th, 1837. His father was a farmer in the day of
prairie fires and deer chases. Mr. Ewing attended the public
schools of his neighborhood in the winter, and labored on the
farm in summer, during the years of his boyhood, completing his
course of literary study at Gill's Academy, in the city of Mattoon.
In 1871, he removed to Douglas County, where he purchased a
farm of one hundred and sixty acres of soil, as fertile as the
Garden of Eden is supposed to have been. He has resided there
ever since, and is gradually extending the range of his opera-
tions, having had two hundred and forty acres under his control
during the past year. In 1861, he enlisted, as a private, in Com-
pany " E," Fifth Illinois Cavalry, and was successively promoted
to Sergeant, Lieutenant and Forage Master, the latter position
being held under the command of Governor Baker, of Indiana.
He also served as Quartermaster of his regiment for some time.
He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and is a
Mason and Knight of Honor. He is an avowed Republican,
from conviction, and has been a Supervisor in Coles County;
also, has held the same position in Douglas County, and was a
member of the Lower House of the Twenty-eighth General
Assembly. He is large and manly in physical proportions, has
a prominent nose, beard well threaded with gray. He is cool
and concise in debate, and grave and dignified in carriage.

138 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. JOHN FAIRBANKS.

The subject of this sketch was born in the town of Hollistonr
Worcester County, Massachusetts, on the 1 7th day of November,.
1848. His parents, both Americans, were George W. and Sarah
L. Whitcomb Holliston. His father was a country merchant,,
and was an enterprising, industrious citizen, respected by all his
neighbors. The mother of the subject of this article was dis-
tantly related to the Lincoln family. Two years after the birth
of Mr. Fairbanks, his parents moved to Jangus, Essex County,
and his father was station agent at this point for the Eastern
Railway. Mr. Fairbanks attended the Grammar School and
Academy, and, at the age of fourteen years, he was ready for
college; but, the war breaking out, his father, who was forty-
nine years old, and his brother, who was seventeen, enlisted, and
John, the fourteen-year-old boy, was left to care for the family,
of five persons. The railroad company gave the father's place,
as agent for the road, to the subject of this sketch, who, with
the aid of his mother, attended to the business of the office
until the father returned from the army. Beyond all doubt, Mr.
Fairbanks was the youngest railroad agent ever employed by any
road. After the return of his father, young Fairbanks went into
a book-store, as clerk, from which humble position he has
worked his way up, until now he is a publisher of some note. In
1869, he moved to Chicago, and took charge of the Western
Depository of the American Tract Society. Mr. Fairbank's par-
ents were members of the Congregational Church, but he is now
an attendant of the Reformed Episcopal Church. He has always
been a Republican, and the position he now holds is the first
public office he has ever filled. He is Representative from the
First District, Chicago, Cook County.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 139

HOK JOHN B. FELKER.

This gentleman .was ushered into the mysteries of life, in
Washington County, Maryland, in November, 1839. In the case
of Mr. Felker, there is no variation from the histrionic origin of
most of the members of the Legislature of Illinois. His father
was a farmer. In 1855, the family came West, locating at Mt.
Morris, Ogle County, Illinois. Mr. Felker removed to Lee
County, where he now resides, in 1860. His education is com-
prehensive and substantial. He is a graduate of Rock River
Seminary, at Mt. Morris, an institution which has contributed a
number of its students to the Legislative Halls of the State. By
profession, he is a physician and surgeon — a graduate of Rush
Medical College, of Chicago — having begun the practice of his
profession in 1863, in the city of Amboy. He is a Congrega-
tionalist in religion, and is a member of the fraternity of Free
Masons. Politically, he is a Democrat .of firm convictions and
strong party preferences. He has served as an Alderman from
his ward in the city of Amboy, for eight years, and has been its
Mayor for the last five years. He is of German extraction, and
his grandfather was a soldier in the War of American Independ-
ence. In 1882, he was elected to the House of Representatives
over Johnson, Democrat, and Osborne, Greenbacker, by a
plurality of about two thousand votes. He is large and portly in
person, of dark complexion and a kind, affable and generous
nature. He will sacrifice all else to duty, and is a man of
excellent judgment and varied talents.

140 Bioc,uA.riiicAL SKETCHES.

HON. EUGENE J. FELLOWS.

Mr. Fellows is now thirty-six years of age, having been born
In New Orleans, Louisiana, March 17th, 1847. His father was
a wealthy Southern gentleman, who was engaged in banking.
In 1867, Mr. Fellows removed from the metropolis of the South,
to that of the Northwest — from the Gulf of Mexico, to the
south-western shores of Lake Michigan, where he became a resident
of the great and only original Chicago. Mr. Fellows' education
is collegiate, he being a graduate of the University of Louisiana,
located in his native city. He is an attorney, by profession,
having received instruction in the office of Judge E. T. Fellows,
of New Orleans. Mr. Fellows is one of the most scholarly men
in the Thirty-third General Assembly, and, although possessing
a very diffident disposition, and being averse to any coarse osten-
tation or "spread-eagle display," he is an eloquent speaker and
most forcible reasoner. He is apt in repartee, and quick to
cover a breach in the wall of argument of his opponents. He
is logical and methodical in his speeches, and will neither em-
ploy, or permit the employment of illegitimate premises or con-
clusions by his adversaries, without exposing them to ridicule,
or utterly demolishing them by his crushing retorts and unim-
peachable proofs of their want of adaptability. He is a con-
scientious and unswerving Democrat, and was elected Represen-
tative to the Thirty-third General Assembly from the Second
District of Chicago. He is Episcopalian in religious belief, and
is a member of the fraternity of Free Masons. In person, he is of
medium stature and well proportioned. He is some what incisive
and brusque in speech, firm as Gibraltar in his convictions, and
neat, genteel and tidy in dress. He is polite and sociable, and
is really a handsome man.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 141

HON. JOHN T. FOSTER.

The subject of this sketch made his appearance among men,.
January 25th, 1849, in McDonough County, Illinois. His parents,
Henry and Eliza Ann, nee Kirkpatrick, were earning their bread
by tilling the soil, prior to and succeeding his birth. On New
Years day, 1877, Mr. Foster located in Logan County, Illinois.
Prior to that time, he had acquired a fair common school educa-
tion, but, determined to push his researches further, he entered
Lincoln University, from which he was graduated with honor,, in,
the class of 1872. Not being an ostentatious man, he did not
seek to place his intellectual acquirements before the people in a
professional capacity. He was content to apply his knowledge
to a proper administration of the affairs of his farm and stock
ranch, and is now regarded as one of the most intelligent and
successful farmers of his locality. He is a member of the Cum-
berland Presbyterian Church and an Ancient Odd Fellow. In
1880, he was a Republican candidate for the Representativeship
of his District, which was Democratic, being defeated by thirteen
and one-half votes. He owns six hundred and eighty acres of
good land, and knows how to make it productive. He was
elected to the House of Representatives, in 1882, by a majority
of four hundred votes. In person, he is dark complected, tall
and well proportioned. He is kind and considerate in demeanor,
and generous in both purse and opinion. He is a thorough gen-
tleman in his intercourse with the public.

142 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. CHARLES E. FULLER.

This gentleman was born in Boone County, Illinois, March
31st, 1849, and is now thirty-four years of age. Seymour Fuller
and his wife, Eliza A. Fuller, at the time of the birth of their
child, Charles, were engaged in earning their bread by tilling
the soil. Charles' first experience was that of a farmer's son,
as exemplified in the day when railways were scarce, and the
scythe, sickle and flail were the most complicated pieces of ma-
chinery employed in the harvest of the few acres of grain and
prairie grass, necessary for the maintenance of the family and
its scanty herd of domestic animals. Mr. Fuller is a graduate
of the Belvidere High School, and attended college at Wheaton
for a short time ; but did not matriculate. He read law with
the Hon. Jesse S. Hildrup, and was admitted to the Bar in due
tin*e, when he began a successful and lucrative practice. He
had served as City Attorney of the city of Belvidere for three
years, when, in 1876, he became State's Attorney for his county,
and resigned in 1878, to accept the office of State Senator, to
which he had been elected. He served his district in this ca-
pacity for four years, when the new apportionment threw him
into a district which contained a hold-over Senator, leaving
no vacancy in that branch of the General Assembly ; so he
was elected .to the Lower House, in 1882. He is a staunch
Republican, and has been Chairman of the County Central
Committee for several years. He is also a member of the
Senatorial, Judicial and Congressional C ommittees of his
party, in his districts. He is a member of the Subordinate
and Encampment branches of Odd Fellowship, and, also, of the
American Legion of Honor. In person, he is not above the
average height ; light complected and smooth shaven. He is
cool and collected, and always thinks carefully before he speaks.

I

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 143

HON. LAFAYETTE FUNK.

Mr. Funk was born in McLean County, Illinois, in January,
1834, his father being then extensively engaged in farming and
stock raising. His education was acquired in the common
schools of his county, and the Ohio Wesleyan University, from
which he was graduated in 1858. He is a farmer, by occupation,
devoting considerable capital and a great deal of time and effort
to the breeding of short-horned cattle, and Berkshire and Poland-
China swine. His farm consists of no less than two thoiisand,
two hundred acres of land, all in one township. It is said to be
worth $165,000, and he has a large stock interest in the First
National Bank, of liloomington, and the National State Bank, of
the same city, in the latter of which he is Director. He is not a
church member, but is a Free Mason, having attained the thirty-
second degree in that Order. He is a Republican, in politics,
unwavering and determined, and has been School Trustee, Com-
missioner of Highways, Town Clerk and Supervisor. He was
elected to the House of Representatives in 1882, from the
Twenty-eighth District, by a handsome majority. In personal
appearance, he is a very large and hearty man; wears a full
beard; is decisive in character, and quick of perception; honest,
reliable and generous to a fault. He is a man, whose familiarity
with the wants of the agriculturalist, fine education and sound
judgment in financial matters, peculiarly fit him for the high po-
sition to which he has been elevated by the votes of his con-
stituents.

144 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. JOSEPH GALLUP.

This gentleman has an ancestry, of which he is justly proud.
It is not because he believes that the blood of royalty courses in
his veins, but for the simple reason that his family was estab-
lished in this country by one of the companions of Governor
Winthrop, of Colonial, Massachusetts. This was five generations
ago, and John Gallup, one of the "Six. Captains," was after-
ward slain in one of those horrible Indian massacres, which
darken the pages of early New England history. The name
is now one of the most common in Massachusetts and Connecti-
cut, on account of the numerous progeny of this, one of the
earlier settlers of that locality. A distant relative of Mr. Gallup
occupied the honored station of Lieutenant Governor of Connec-
ticut, a few years since. His father was Nathaniel Gallup, and his
mother's maiden name was Sarah Barbour. Ben Adhem Gallup,
his grandfather, was one of the brave band of Yeomen, who
fought in the War for American Independence. Mr. Gallup was
born in Windham County, Connecticut, September 4th, 1827,
and is now fifty-five years of age. He came to Peoria County,
Illinois, in 1850, and began farming upon lands owned by his
father. He yet resides at the same place, and is one of Illinois*
sturdy farmers. He received his education in Smithville Semi-
nary and Plainfield Academy, in Rhode Island. The latter is
one of the oldest places of learning in the country. He has held
many positions of honor and trust in his county, and was elected
to the House in 1880, and reflected in 1882. He was once a
Lieutenant of Militia, but prefers peace to war. He belongs to
no church, but is inclined to the faith of Universalism more than
any other. He has been a Democrat all his life, and was elected
on that ticket, from the Twenty-sixth District, by a plurality of
over one thousand votes.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 145

HON. A. G. GOODSPEED.

This gentleman came into being in Clinton County, New York,
in 1821, his father being a genuine downcast farmer. The family
removed to Ohio in 1833; 'but left there in 1842 and came to La
Salle County, 111., the eubject of this sketch afterward becoming,
and now being a resident of the village of Odell, Livingston
County. His education was derived from the public schools and
personal effort, privately put forth. His business is as honorable
as that of any other member of the Assembly, and equally as
lucrative, perhaps. It is nothing more or less than plain farming.
Mr. Goodspeed is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church;
a Free Mason and an Odd Fellow. He is a solid and unwaver-
ing Republican in politics, being, as it were, one of the charter
members of the party. He has been Overseer and Commissioner
of Highways in his township, and been its Assessor for fifteen
consecutive years. He was elected to the House of Representa-
tives in 1882, from the Eighteenth District, defeating his oppo-
nent by a majority of two thousand votes. He is tall, and his
hair is snowy white. He is very patriarchal in appearance, in
fact. He is one of those genial, good natured old men, whom
everybody admires, and who always has a kind word or gentle
deed for the humblest of his acquaintances. He is a fine speaker
and an able legislator, who reflects honor upon himself, his
constituency and the State.

146 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. SIDNEY GREAR.

This prominent member of the House was born at Jonesboror
Illinois, March 20th, 1854. John and Cindona Grear, his par-
ents, were serving the community as a skillful jeweler ,and tidy
housewife, when Sidney came to honor the family's name. His
great-grandfather was a graduate of the Edinburg (Scotland)
University, though a German by birth, and served as a Surgeon
in the British Army, during the Revolutionary War. His grand-
father, George Grear, was an Ensign, afterward Major, under
Andrew Jackson, in the War of 1812. He afterward became a
Lieutenant, a Major, and was a Captain in the Blackhawk War.
His father was born in Jonesboro, Illinois, where he now resides.
Sidney's education is excellent, and was acquired more by close
observation and careful reading than any systematic course of
instruction, until he reached the age of fifteen years, when, hav-
ing a talent for music, which had developed into a musical edu-
cation, without extraordinary culture, he began traveling, as a
musician, with theatrical companies. He also corresponded for
various newspapers, during his wanderings, and, at the end of
three years, came back to his home, and, in course of time, be-
came a graduate of the Southern Illinois Normal University.
He then became principal of the public schools of his native
city, and, during his service in that capacity, 'read law with Gov.
John Dougherty, who took great interest in him, and urged him
to become a lawyer. He was admitted to the Bar in 1878, and
became a partner of the Prosecuting Attorney of his county ;
afterward, in 1882, he became a partner with Judge M. C. Craw-
ford, who had presided over the courts of his circuit for eighteen
years. Mr. Grear defended the daughter of his preceptor in the-
law against an information for quo warranto in the Circuit, Ap-
pellate and Supreme Courts of this State, securing in the latter
a decision that a woman may be legally appointed Master in
Chancery of a Circuit Court. It is the first case of the kind on
record in our higher courts, and young Grear has certainly ac-
complished an unparalleled success in it. He is a Democrat, de-
feating Thomas M. Logan, a brother of Hon. John A. Logan, by
a plurality of 6,000 votes, for Representative, from the Cairo-
District. The firm of Crawford & Grear is one of the strongest
in Southern Illinois.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 147

HON. FRANCIS M. GREATHOUSE.

This prominent member of the House was born in Pike
County, Illinois, in 1837, on the 26th day of March. His father
was Bonaparte Greathouse, and his mother's name was Nancy.
They were representatives of the early settlers of the State —
generous, kind, hard-working, intelligent and thrifty. At his
father's death in 1850, he left an estate worth $50,000. The
subject of this sketch received a good, solid education in the
common schools of his county, after which he entered the office
of Senator Archer, of Pittstield, in his native county, as a law
student. He completed his course of legal study under the tutor-
ship of Hon. N. M. Knapp, of Winchester, when he was admitted
to the Bar, and at once entered upon a successful practice of his
profession, at Hardin, Calhoun County. He has served as Master
in Chancery, State's Attorney and County Judge of the latter
County, resigning the last named office when elected Representa-
tive in 1882, from the Thirty-sixth District. He is a consistent
member of the Christian Church and an enthusiastic Odd Fellow
and Free Mason. His plurality was 5,000. In person, Mr.
Greathouse is portly and dignified. His long, black, curling hair
is sprinkled a little with gray. He is generous in purse as well
opinion, and he is as genial a companion and talented a gentle,
man as can be found in the House of the Thirty-third General
Assembly. Judging from what we have observed, his presence
at the sessions of his branch of the Legislature is no less gratify-
ing to his associates than those, whose suffrages conferred the
honor upon hinu His future seems full of promise, and we have
sufficient confidence in his good sense to feel sure that he will
not fall into the tempting paths of error, which lie in the way of
a rising public man.

148 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. JAMES. M. GREGG.

Mr. Gregg was born in Hamilton County, Illinois, November
5th, 1846, his father being one of the early farmers of the State.
His education was obtained in the common schools of Illinois,
and by a course of study in a law office, as a result of which he
was, in due time, admitted to the Bar, immediately entering upon
a successful and profitable professional career. He is not a church
member; but belongs to the Ancient Order of Free and Accepted
Masons. In politics, he is a Democrat, of long standing and un-
questioned fidelity. He was appointed Master in Chancery in
1871, and State's Attorney for Saline County, in July, 1872. He
was elected to the latter office in November following, and
reelected in 1876. He was elected to the House of Representa-
tives in 1880, and, in 1882, was reelected to the same responsible
position, which he fills with honor to himself, and the utmost
satisfaction to the constituency, which raised him to power in
the Forty-ninth District. His long experience as Prosecuting
Attorney for his county, renders his services at this session of the
Legislature peculiarly valuable, in the light of the changes in
the Criminal Code of the State, which have been proposed, and
are, or, at least, seem to be, necessary to a more stern adminis-
tration of the penalties of the law. We venture the prediction
that his knowledge of the methods of practice in criminal cases
will prove largely beneficial to the people, by leaving its impress
upon the legislation of the session. In person, Mr. Gregg is not
above medium stature; fair, in complexion; a fine conversation-
alist and debater, and a leader on the Democratic side of the
House. He is a very polite, intelligent 'and generous gentleman.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 14'J

HON. ELIJAH M. HAINES.

Mr. Haines was born at Oneida, New York, his parents being
natives of Connecticut. His father died when Elijah was but
six years of age, and the son went to live with a farmer, remain-
ing five years, after which, he and a brother came to Chicago,
which was then a village of about five hundred inhabitants. He
removed to Lake County, Illinois, a year later, and began farm-
ing. His educational advantages were very limited, and he
procured books and began his struggle for knowledge. He soon
acquired a fair understanding of ordinary studies, and of the
German and Latin languages. During this time, he was obliged
to provide for himself and his widowed mother. Owing to
trouble arising from uncertain tenure of lands in his county, he.
began reading law, and was admitted to the Bar in 1351. He
practiced at Waukegan until 1860, when he removed to Chicago.
He is the compiler of the Township Organization Laws of Illi-
nois, and similar works in Michigan, Missouri, Wisconsin and
Minnesota. He is also the author of a Treatise for Illinois Jus-
tices of the Peace, a work which was once very popular. He
was originally a Democrat in politics ; but espoused the anti-
monoplist cause, and has since been an Independent. He was
elected to the House of Representatives in 1858, 1860, 1862,
1874, and 1882. During the session of 1875, he was chosen
Speaker, on account of a dead-lock, in which he held the b'alance
of power. The history of that session, and his presidency, is
yet. fresh in the minds of the people of Illinois. He was, also,
a member of the Constitutional Convention of 1870, holding the
balance of power in that body. He is an excellent parliamen-
tarian, exasperatingly cool and incisive in speech, and warmly
cherishes his sentiments of favor or hatred. His recent filibust-
ering process of obstruction, on the high license question, is a
fair sample of his tactics on the floor of the House.

150 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES,

HON. JULIUS A. HAMMOND.

The subject of this sketch was born in Bath, Summit County,
Ohio, April 25th, 1833. His parents were Ward K. and Sophro-
nia Hale Hammond. They were of English descent, and the
father was a farmer. When the subject of this sketch was ten
years of age, his parents moved from Ohio to Illinois, and
located in Knox County, at a point where there were, at that
time, but few settlers. Here the father bought a fine farm of
one hundred and sixty acres, and, during the six years following,
young Hammond and the family worked very hard, tilling their
fields. This farm of 160 acres, Mr. Hammond's father sold for
$500, (to-day it is worth $15,000,) and moved to Hanover, Jo
Daviess County, where he rented land. The subject of this
sketch worked for the man who owned the farm his father had
rented, for 25 cents per day and boarded himself. At the pres-
ent time, Mr. Hammond owns the farm his father then rented,
and the former landlord's son and daughter have been employed
by him. He has erected on the farm a house costing $3,000, and
he owns 480 acres of land in that County. Mr. Hammond had
little or no advantages until he was 21 years of age. His educa-
tion was derived from several different schools. He attended
the Academic department of Knox College for one year, and was
one year at the Rock River Seminary, at Mt. Morris. He also
spent one year at the Northwestern University at Evanston,
when he then returned to Knox College, where he remained six
months. Mr. Hammond has held several local offices in his
township. He has been School Director and School Trustee, and
is Justice of the Peace. He now fills the position of Representa-
tive from the 12th District. Three of Mr. Hammond's brothers
were in the army, and he was left at home to care for the re-
mainder of the family. When the draft came, he was drafted ;
but not being able to leave home, he hired a substitute, paying
a man $800 to enlist for one year, in his stead. Mr. Hammond
is a member of the M. E. Church. He has always been a Repub-
lican, and an active worker in the ranks of that party. In
appearance, he is of medium height, and wears a full beard; is a
pleasant gentleman and a sharp, shrewd member.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 151

HON. WILLIAM HENRY HARPER.

Mr. Harper is one of those energetic young business men,
whose energy, thoughtfulness and courage fit them for positions
of honor and trust, and who wait for the office to seek them,
rather than neglect more tangible matters, for the sake of pursu-
ing a position, only to find that the people prefer that some less
pretentious and more worthy gentleman shall fill it. He was
born in Tippecanoe County, Indiana, May 4th, 1845, and, when
very young, emigrated, with his parents, to Illinois, and became
a resident of Woodford County. He was raised upon a farm,
there forming habits of close attention and unceasing industry,
which have proven invaluable to him in his more recent career
as a grain dealer. At the age of nineteen, Mr. Harper enlisted
as a private in the One Hundred and Forty-fifth Regiment of
Illinois Volunteers, and remained in the service until the Rebel-
lion was crushed. His education was obtained in public schools,
and Eastman's Business College, Chicago. In 1872, he was ap-
pointed Chief Grain Inspector, and administered the affairs of
that office to the satisfaction of the grain dealers of Chicago,
until 1875. He is now largely interested in the immense
Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul Elevators, as part owner and
manager. He is a solid Republican, and his business experience
has rendered him one of the most practical and far-seeing Legis-
lators in the Thirty-third General Assembly. He is a perfect
gentleman in appearance and bearing, and, although business to
the core, is generous and considerate, withal. He is interested
in numerous business enterprises other than those above named,
-and has accumulated a large fortune.

152 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. WILLIAM S. HAWKER.

This gentleman was born on Long Island, State of New York,
January 25th, 1834, his father being at that time industriously
engaged in the responsible and multifarious duties of farm life.
In 1845, the family came to Illinois, locating in Kankakee County,,
where Mr. Hawker now resides. The subject of this sketch
modeled his professional choice after that of his father, becom-
ing a farmer by occupation. He is the owner of a very fine farm
of two hundred acres in Kankakee County, and cultivates it
upon an intelligent and profitable principle. He is one of that
better class of farmers, who do not simply think of the present;
but are continually making substantial provisions for the future.
His farm is well improved, and upon it are used the labor-saving
appliances of this enlightened age. In fact, he has reduced
farming to a system, which renders it no less remunerative than
it is pleasant. He received his education in the common schools
of New York and Illinois. He is not a member of any church
or secret society. He has been a Republican throughout his
voting career, and is no less warm in the faith now than in the
beginning. He has been Township Collector, three years ; Road
Commissioner, three years ; Supervisor, eight years, and is now
serving his first term in the House of Representatives, having
been elected in ]882, by a plurality of 2,500 votes, running ahead
of any other candidate on the ticket. He represents the Six-
teenth District. He is a man of average stature, dark in com-
plexion, and believes that where there is a will there is also a
way. On account of his energy and determination, coupled
with good judgment, measures introduced by him seldom fail to
pass. In disposition, he is kind, obliging and generous.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 153

HON. JAMES A. HAWKS.

This gentleman was born in Oswego County, New York, July
19th, 1847, his father being a farmer at that time. Mr Hawks
came to Illinois in 1869, locating at Atwood, Piatt County. His
education was obtained at the Felley Academy, Fulton, New
York, and the Hamilton Law School, of which he is a graduate.
By occupation, he has been a jolly miller, ever since he began
business for himself. In 1864, he enlisted as -a private in the
Third New York Artillery, although but seventeen years of age,
and served until the close of the war. He was a prisoner at Libby
Prison a month, being paroled the day before Grant captured the
place. He is not a communicant in any church; but is a member of
the Ancient order of Free and Accepted Masons. Mr. Hawks is
quite wealthy, owning a mill and elevator worth $8,000, in Atwood,
and two hundred and sixty acres of land in its immediate vicinity.
He also has a half interest in a tile factory which is said to be
worth at least $6,000. In politics, he is a sound and unwavering
Republican, and has been a member of the Board of Supervisors
of his County five years, two of which he occupied the responsible
and honorable position of Chairman. In 1882, he was elected to
the House of Representatives from the Thirtieth District, polling
an unusually large vote. In person, he is of the average stature,
fair in complexion; a good man of business, a shrewd legislator
and careful financier. He has accumulated his entire property
by individual effort and excellent management. He is dignified
and manly in bearing, charitable in opinion and judgment, a clear
and forcible speaker and a kind and generous gentleman. He
is not ostentatious; but he is decidedly one of the sound, common
sense Representatives of the State of Illinois.

154 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. LOWRY HAY.

Mr. Hay is a native Illinoisan, who was born in White County,
June 15th, 1838, to his parents, John and Hannah, who were en-
gaged in earning their bread by the honest toil incident to farm
life. Young Hay received an education in the common schools
of his county, during the epoch of log-cabin school-houses. As
his advantages in this respect were very limited, he did what
«very other young man who, under like circumstances, deter-
mines to make his mark in the world. He supplied, by extraor-
dinary effort, what was denied him by necessity. He is a living
illustration of the fact that an education is not entirely de-
pendent upon the efforts of well qualified teachers; but more
upon the energies of a willing and inquiring pupil. Mr. Hay is
a farmer — one of the men who, having experimental knowledge
of the needs of the majority of his constituents, is certainly a
proper and worthy person to represent them in the Legislature
of their State. He has always been a strict adherent to the
Democratic party, and, in 1874, was elected Sheriff of Wayne
County, where he then resided. After the expiration of his term
of office, he returned to White County, and was quietly attend-
ing to the wants of his farm and family, in 1882, when the suf-
frages of his people were united in a successful effort to make
him one of their Representatives in the Thirty-third General
Assembly. His plurality was fully seven thousand, and the
voters of the Forty-third District have no reason to regret their
choice. In person, Mr. Hay is somewhat about the medium
stature, and is possessed of an excellent physique. He has dark
hair and wears a moustache of the same color. In manner, he
is polite and affable, yet a little sedate. He is very genteel in
his bearing and deportment, is an acute observer and shrewd
politician. He is not hasty, yet he is quick to apprehend the
errors of an antagonist or perceive the advantages of a position,
or demerits of a pending question. He is a safe man to be
entrusted with law-making powers and privileges. -

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 155

HON. THOMAS N. HENRY.

Mr. Henry was born in Shelby Connty, Illinois, on January
22d, 1837. His father was one of the pioneer agriculturalists of
that part of the State, having settled at the above named place
in 1829. On Sundays, the Reverend B. W. Henry ceased his
farm labor and entered the log cabins of his neighborhood, to
preach the Gospel. He was elected one of the County Commis-
sioners of Shelby, in the good times when a five-dollar bill would
defray the expenses of a very spirited campaign. To illustrate*
the perseverance and dauntless spirit of the pioneers of Illinois,
we give space to the statement that Mr. Henry's father made a
visit to the State of Virginia, when Thomas was very young,
accomplishing the journey on horseback, and defraying the en-
tire expenses of the trip with seven dollars and fifty cents. The
son is a resident of Shelby County now, having engaged in mer-
chandising at Windsor. Mr. Henry is a member of the Chris-
tian Church, a Mason and Knight of Honor. He is a conscientious
Democrat in politics, and has been Chairman of the County
Board for the last three years, and a member for five years, during
which time a magnificent court-house was built, without the misap-
propriation or stealing of a single dollar. He was elected to the
House of Representatives in 1882, by a plurality of four thou-
sand five hundred votes. He is below the average stature, small
and dark complected; has a very sharp, bright eye, which seems
to penetrate one's inmost thoughts and motives at a glance. He
is shrewd in business, and polite, social and generous in disposi-
tion. He is a trustworthy member, who will not be inveigled
into a sacrifice of principle for the sake of so-calkd policy.

156 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. JAMES HERRINGTON.

The eyes of Mr. Herrington first gazed in wonder upon the
world, in Crawford County, Indiana during the year 1826. His
father was at that time a merchant. The family came to Illinois
in 1833, and located in'Chicago. His education was 'acquired
in a Chicago printing office, under the censorship of the celebra-
ted character in Illinois politics — Long John Wentworth — where
he was regularly apprenticed under the law; and served for seven
long and weary, but profitable years. He is now a farmer and
dairyman. He belongs to no church; but is a Free Mason and
member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. In politics,
Mr. Herrington is a Democrat, probably having become thor-
oughly disgusted with Republican methods and chicanery during
his service under the baleful thumb of the above mentioned Long
John. He was County Clerk of Kane County, eight years, and
has been a member of 'the Lower House in the General Assembly
of his State, for six consecutive terms. At the last election, in
November, 1882, he polled the largest vote which he had ever
received, and it begins to appear as if the Democrats intend
keeping him in office as long as he desires it. They could not
make a better choice, we are very sure. He is large and brusque
in bearing, full of dignity, witty, has a remarkably powerful
voice, and is one of the strongest debaters in the House of Repre-
sentatives. He is very taciturn and distant at first acquaintance;
but, upon more intimate association, appears, as he really is, a
kind hearted gentleman.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 157

HON. ROBERT S. HESTER.

This gentleman was born in Boone County, Kentucky, Novem-
ber 19th, 1825. His father was a farmer, and Robert followed
his example in choosing the means by which he would win his
way to fortune and fame. When the subject of this sketch was
but a year old, the family removed to Ohio, where it remained
until 184V, when it joined the tide, which was flowing to the
fertile prairies of the Sucker State, locating in Marshall County,
where Mr. Hester now resides. His education was obtained in
the country schools of Ohio, and by careful observation and close
study, since he has reached the estate of manhood. He is an
Elder of the Christian Church, but does not belong to any secret
society. He has been a Republican ever since that party came
into existence, and feels that, until new issues arise and new
party lines are drawn, it is his duty to remain faithful to the or-
ganization, which safely educated the government through the
greatest crisis, which any Republic on earth has ever succeeded
in bridging. He has served his constituents as Road Commis-
sioner, Justice of the Peace, Supervisor and Sheriff, having been
elected to the latter office on the ticket which was honored with
the name of Abraham Lincoln, in 1860. He was elected to the
House of Representatives in 1882, by the largest vote polled in
his district at that election. His farm consists of six hundred
acres of excellent land, and he is largely interested in breeding
improved cattle and swine. In person, he is not above medium
stature, is dark in complexion, has a great many gr.ay hairs
among the black, and is clever, generous and jovial in disposi-
tion. He is one of the men to be regarded as checks upon
extravagant and visionary measures, and will labor to make the
legislation of the session substantial and practical.

158 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. LUTHER L. HIATT.

This gentleman was born in Henry County, Indiana, in August,
1844. His father is a physician and surgeon. In 1859, Mr. Hiatt
came to Illinois, locating at Wheaton, DuPage County,, where he
now resides, and pursues the business of a druggist and pharmacist.
He received a partial collegiate education ; but left the institu-
tion without being graduated. In 1862, he enlisted as a private
in the One Hundred and Fifth Illinois Regiment, and was mus-
tered out in the same capacity at the close of the war, conscious
of having performed his duty, and faithfully served his country.
He has been a Justice of the Peace for four years, and Post-
master of his village two years. He was elected to the House
of Representatives in 1882, by an exceptionally large vote. He
is a Republican in politics, solely from a conviction that that
party is the proven friend of free government, and the enemy of
repudiation, tyranny, and what he believes to be a baneful doc-
trine— State Sovereignty. He is a very cool and forcible rea-
soner, and is neither afraid or ashamed to make known his
sentiments upon any question, in which he believes himself, his
constituents or the people of the State, generally, to be vitally
interested. He is a splendid man in physique, and a very polite
gentleman in his intercourse with the public. He is determined
in his position upon all topics ; but generous to a fallen foe, no
less than a friend.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. JOHN HIGGINS.

Mr. Higgins, who represents the Forty-eighth District in the
House of Representatives, was born at Middleton, Cork County,
Ireland, November 22d, 1845. His family, consisting of his
mother, four brothers and himself, came to the United States in
1852 and settled at Pittsfield, Massachusetts, where the subject
of our sketch acquired his education in the common and high
schools. In May, 1859, Mr. Higgins was apprenticed to a watch-
maker-and served his full time at that trade. In 1866, he came
to Illinois and located at Du Quoin, Perry County, where he now
resides and has been engaged in business since 1867. He is a
Democrat in politics, and was elected to his present position in
November, 1882. He is a member of the House Committee on
Claims. Mr. Higgins is a somewhat peculiar man in deportment,
although upright, honest and frank. One of his strong personal
traits is diffidence, and it was with considerable difficulty that
enough material for even this brief article could be obtained.
He is a very firm and thoughtful gentleman, who commands both
the respect and confidence of his aasociates and the highest
regard of his constituents. He is a safe and able legislator and
a very estimable man.

160 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. GEORGE L. HOFFMAN.

Mr. Hoffman was born in Hesse Darnstadt, German Empire,
December 1st, 1847, his father being a shoemaker by calling.
The family came to the United States in 1850, locating at
Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. Mr. Hoffman afterward removed
to Lanark, Carroll County, Illinois, where he resided for some
time, but finally made his permanent home at Mt. Carroll, in the
same county. His literary education was acquired, in the public
schools of Pennsylvania and the Normal University of this State.
He was professionally educated in the Wesleyan Law School
being graduated in both that and the University in 1877. At
the early age of fourteen, he had worked at the bench with his
father, and acquired a very excellent knowledge of the trade, but
that was not his kind of a bench, so he enters the Bar, that he
might work at another, which he deemed better suited to his
tastes. He is the junior member of the firm of Hunter, Hunter
& Hoffman, attorneys, Mt. Carroll, Illinois — a firm which has
few equals and no superiors in that part of Illinois. He is not a
church member, but belongs to the Independent Order. of Odd
Fellows. In politics, Mr. Hoffman is a Republican, he voted
for Greeley and Tilden in the campaigns of .1872 and 1876, but
supported Cullom for Governor, in both of his campaigns. He
is one of those men, who votes solely from a conviction of right,
and it is pleasant to realize that the day for employing indepen-
dence and pure and manly principles as an argument for the
defeat of one, who exemplified them, is past. He was elected
to the House of Representatives in 1882, from the Twelfth Dis-
trict, this being the first public office he has ever held. He is
the owner of one hundred and sixty acres of land in Iowa. He
is a very intelligent and obliging gentleman.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 161

HON. J. M. HONEY.

This gentleman was born in Davis County s Indiana, October
27th, 1839. His father was then a clerk in a dry goods store.
The subject of this sketch came to Illinois in 1847, locating in
Jasper County, where he now resides. His education was
acquired in the district schools of Illinois, and by observation and
personal effort. He enlisted in the Eighth Illinois Regiment of
Volunteers, in 1861, and served in the War of the Rebellion
until 1864, when he was discharged. He afterward studied law
with John H. Halldy, a practicing attorney of Newton, in his
county, and was admitted to the Bar in 1870. He is now engaged
in practicing his profession, at Newton. He is an Odd Fellow
and Free Mason, but not a communicant in any church organiza-
tion. He is a pronounced Republican in politics, and, although a
man of very great local prominence, had never held any public
office prior to his election to the House of Representatives in
1882, as the minority candidate in the Forty-fifth District. He
beat his prohibitionist opponent by about seven thousand votes,
a political trifle, which few men could successfully overcome.
Mr. Honey, in addition to his legal business, has a farm of about
two hundred and ten acres, and owns a large interest in a flour-
ishing and profitable dry goods establishment in his town. In
person, he is of medium height and dark complexion; grave and
dignified in bearing, yet generous and polite in his intercourse
with the people.

162 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES,

HON. WILLIAM W. HOSKINSON.

This gentleman of the House of Representatives, was born in
Ohio on the 15th of September, 1816. His father was a foundry-
man and machinist by trade, so Mr. Hoskinson is another of the
inumerable that has been born humbly, only to rise in the estim-
ation of the people, by individual effort, and be chosen by their
votes, to represent their interests in the Legislative Assembly of
their State. His education was acquired in the face of almost
insurmountable obstacles, he being obliged to depend upon the
subscription schools of the olden time, for its germ, and compell-
ed to supply what they lacked of making it reasonably complete,
by perseverent study of such books as he could obtain. In 1825,
the family come to Illinois, locating in Wabash County, at the
village of Mt. Carmel. Mr. Hoskinson became one of those in-
dispensible elements of society — a tailor, following his business
in that line until 1844, when he opened a large General Merchan-
dize establishment and clothing house, in the affairs of which he
was actively engaged until 1880, when he retired from active
business life. His life has not been a very eventful one, as he is
one of those quiet men, whose innate merits are left to be dis-
covered by the people, in their own good time. He was never a
candidate for any public office until in the autumn of 1882, when
he was elected to the House of Representatives, as a Republican,
by a very large vote. Politically, he is not unreasonable; but is
a staunch advocate of Republican principles, solely because he
believes that they are based upon public policy and moral recti-
tude.' He has large real estate interests, and is said to be quite
wealthy. In religious faith, he is a Methodist. He is a member
of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, also. In person, he
is spare and not above medium stature. He is a shrewd financier
and a generous hearted and generally amiable gentleman. Al-
though sixty-six years old, his hair is quite dark and beautiful,
yet, time having dealt leniently with him.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 1 63

HON. JESSE D. JENNINGS.

This gentleman is now serving his first term in the House of
Representatives, having been elected as a Democrat from the
Forty-third District, in 1882. He was born in Shelby County,
Illinois, January 6th, 1831, and is now fifty-two years of age.
His father owned one hundred and sixty acres of land, and, upon
this Shelby County farm, Mr. Jennings began his ca'reer as a
farmer's boy. In 1839, his parents removed to Fayette County,
where they purchased some good farming lands. His father only
recently died. He became a clerk in a store, remaining there
for one year. He then married, purchased a three hundred and
twenty acre farm, and became a husband and husbandman on his
own account. He volunteered as a Second Lieutenant in the
Thirty-fifth Illinois Infantry, and was soon promoted to the
Captaincy of Company "K." In 1863, he was obliged to resign
his commission on account of ill-health. Mr. Jennings says that
his educational advantages were very limited, and significantly
adds: "I have been acquiring my education since I became
twenty-one, and, although I have paid dearly for it, I lack a great
deal of having it all, yet." This is in marked contrast with some
of the youthful collegians of the Assembly, who imagine that
they know it all already. He is a pronounced Democrat, and
has served as Sheriff and member of the Board of Supervisors of
his county. He is a Free Mason, but not a member of any
church. His opponent for Legislative honors, was Col. Sturgis,
whom he defeated by a plurality of five thousand votes. Tall,
raw-boned, as was Abraham Lincoln, angular in features, but a
giant in bulk, is the way he appears to a stranger. He is as
kind-hearted as a woman, generous as he is large, and as pointed
in repartee as in features. He is one of the deceiving men of
the House; one from whom little would be expected and much
experienced.

164 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. WILLIAM H. JOHNSON.

This gentleman is a native of the Sucker State, having beeu
born in White County, Illinois, March 3d, 1840. He has spent
his life as a resident of the county where he was born, receiving
his education in its common and high schools. In March of
1861, he enlisted in Company "I," of the First Illinois Cavalry ^
serving one year as Orderly Sergeant. He became First Lieu-
tenant of the Eighty-seventh Illinois Infantry, serving in that
capacity until the close of the Rebellion. He is a Free Mason of
the Royal Arch Degree, and a member of the Ancient Order of
United Workmen. He is also a communicant in the Christian
Church. He read law with John E. Whiting, of Carmi, Illinois,
and was admitted to the Bar in 1867. He is an active and suc-
cessful lawyer — one whom the people of his locality regard as
able and influential, and, if the writer's judgment is worth any-
thing as a guide to public opinion, the people of Illinois have no-
reason to regret that his birth-place and home — his professional
career and political promotion are so intimately related to their
proud State. In political belief, he is an avowed and uncom-
promising Republican — one who acts from convictions of righty
justice and eternal fitness, in making his estimates of political
merits. He never held a public office prior to his election to the
House of Representatives, in 1882, and is not a professed or pro-
fessional wire-puller in political matters. His election was based
upon his intrinsic value as a man and lawyer. He is the minority
Representative from his district. In stature, he is above the
average. He is portly and yet neat in appearance ; affable, gen-
tlemanly and polite in deportment, and kind and generous in.
natural impulses.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 165

HON. JOHN H. JONES.

Mr. Jones was born in Brown County, Ohio, on October 30th,
1823. His father was a farmer who removed to Warren County,
Indiana, when John was a very small boy. Mr. Jones came to
Illinois in 1851, locating in Iroquois County, where he has since
resided. He received* a limited education in the district schools
-of Indiana; but has been a close observer and untiring searcher
after knowledge all his life, thus making amends for the disad-
vantages under which he has labored. He has devoted his life
to the cultivation of the soil. He affiliates with no church or
secret society. He is a lover of fine live-stock and has a great
many rare specimens upon his farm. He is a staunch Republi-
can, having cast his fortunes with the party in 1856, and stuck
to it faithfully ever since. He has served his County as a mem-
ber of the Board of Supervisors for thirteen consecutive years,
and as Treasurer of Schools, for fifteen years in succession. He
has no less than fourteen hundred acres of land in his County,
and owns a large interest in the First National Bank, of Watseka,
of which he is one of the directors. He is, perhaps, one of the
wealthiest men in Iroquois County. He was elected to the House
of Representatives in 1882, by a very large plurality of votes. In
person, he is stout and heavy. He is a very hearty old gentle-
man, and one of the shrewdest financiers in the House of the
Thirty-third General Assembly. He is good natured and gen-
erous in disposition, and practical in thought and speech.

166 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. ROBERT BRUCE KENNEDY.

Mr. Kennedy was born at Roxbury, Delaware County, New
York, November 25th, 1852. His father was a merchant by oc-
cupation. In 1875, Mr. Kennedy came to Illinois, locating in
Chicago. His education is academic, he being a graduate of the
Delaware Institute, in his native State. He is of Scotch descent,
his mother having been a member of Dr. Chalmer's Church, in
Glasgow, Scotland. His father was a Presbyterian. By occu-
pation, Mr. Kennedy is a dealer in books and stationery, being
connected with the J. M. W. Jones Company, of Chicago, which
is one of the most extensive stationery and blank book houses
in the United States. He is thoroughly conversant with his
business, and has made it a financial success since the com-
mencement of his commercial career. He is not a communicant
in any church, although he is s regular attendant at Presbyterian
meetings, and contributes to the maintenance of the organiza-
tion. In politics, he is a firm and uncompromising Republican,
having inherited his political affiliations, and confirmed them by
study, practice and experience. He has never before held public
office ; but, in 1882, was chosen to represent the First Chicago
District, in the Lower House of the Thirty-third General Assem-
bly. He is an ardent advocate of party measures, and a safe
and perfectly reliable representative of the interests of his con-
stituency. He ran about a thousand votes ahead of his ticket in
his own precinct, which is a much stronger expression of the
esteem in which he is held, than can possibly be placed upon
paper. . In person, he is above the average stature, rather dark
in complexion, possessing a fine physique, and a genial and ami-
able temper. In speech, he is pointed and incisive, and the trust
reposed in him by his constituency is not misplaced. Mr. Ken-
nedy's father was a neighbor of Jay Gould during his resi-
dence in New York City.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 167

HON. ERNREIS R. E. KIMBROUGH.

This gentleman was born in Edgar County, Illinois, March
28th, 1851. His father, Andrew H. Kimbrough, was a practicing
physician and surgeon, when the subject of our sketch came into
the world. Mr. Kimbrough has resided in the district where he
was born, ever since his birth, and, perhaps his fidelity to the old
stamping ground and the associations of his youth, had something
to do with electing him to the House of Representatives. His
education was acquired in the district schools of the State, and
Normal University at Bloomington. He is a Free Mason and
Knight of Honor, but is not a communicant in any church de-
nomination. He is a lawyer by profession, and is said to be a
very prominent and successful one. In politics, he is a regular,
old fashioned, upright Democrat, from a conviction of the intrin-
sic worth of the principles, upon which that party rests. He
was elected to the House of Representatives in 1882, and is also
a member of the Board of Education of his city, Danville, in the
Thirty-first District. He is quite a wealthy gentleman, being
the proprietor of a very fine farm and holding considerable stock
in the Gas Company and First National Bank, of his city, being
a director in both of those corporations. He has accumulated
his money by his own efforts and knows, by its cost in labor and
anxiety, the full value of every dollar of it. He is tall and com-
manding in physique; fair in complexion; dignified in bearing
and cool, collected and deliberate in speech. He is a forcible
reasoner and a successful financier, whose services in the Legisla-
ture would be missed, were he to be called from his chair.

168 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. EDWARD M. KINMAN.

This rising young Representative was born at Jacksonville,
Morgan County, Illinois, April 2d, 1856, to William and Ann
Kinman, a wedded pair which had cast their fortunes in what
was then known as the far west. His father was a Lieutenant
Colonel in the One Hundred and Fifteenth Regiment of Illinois
Volunteers, and became a martyr to his cause and country, upon
the gory field of Chicamauga. Mr. Kinman possesses a very
excellent education, being a graduate of the Northwestern Uni-
versity, of the cla,ss of 1878. He read law with the firm of
Brown, Kirby & Russell, in Jacksonville, and is now considered
a very prominent member of the Morgan County Bar. He is a
member of the Methodist Church, and is a brother in good
standing of one of the Jacksonville Lodges of the Independent
Order of Odd Fellows. He yet maintains his connection with
the Beta Theta Pi, a secret literary society in the University,
where he received his education. He is a prominent Democrat,
has never been anything else, politically, within the range of his
memory, and seems to be held in high esteem in the Thirty-eighth
District, of which he is one of the Representatives. He was
elected in 1882, by a plurality of over two thousand votes. In
person, he is very trim and well proportioned. He is a little
above medium height, and inclined toward a dark complexion,
though not in a very pronounced degree. He is prepossessing in
both manners and appearance, and the young ladies of Spring-
field are unanimously agreed that he is a good looking young
gentleman. He is a fluent speaker, and will make his mark with
the first good opportunity that offers.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 169

HON. GREGORY A. KLUPP.

This gentleman was born at Golawoz, Prussian Poland, on the
10th of April, 1849, to Joseph Klupp, a contractor and architect,
and Anna, his wife, whose maiden name was Smarzyuski. In
1868, Mr. Klupp came to the "land of the free and home of the
brave," locating at Berlin, Wisconsin, from which place he re-
moved to Milwaukee, thence to St. Louis, and finally locating in
the City of Chicago, which is now his home. He was educated
in a graded school of his native country, and has acquired his
knowledge of the English language by close observation and
frequent experiment. He was a distiller prior to his emigration
from Poland, and followed that business dnring his residence in
St. Louis. He is now actively engaged in business connected
with Chicago and Western real estate. He is said to be the
owner of real estate valued at twenty-five thousand dollars. He
is a devoted Catholic and holds no fellowship with any secret
society. He is a Democrat from crown to sole, and was elected
to the House of Representatives in 1882, by a plurality of nearly
three thousand votes. His life has been rather an eventful one,
he having been compelled to contend against adversities in many
forms. This has given him a determined air, which is calculated
to inspire an opponent with a full conviction that the task of
overcoming his objections to a given measure is one of no mean
dimensions. In person, Mr. Klupp is small and fair. He is
polite and affable, and a shrewd reasoner. He is very plain and
unassuming in dress, no less than in speech, and he will keenly
watch all measures, which may threaten the interests of his con-
stituents. He possesses all of the ingenuity as a Legislator, for
which the people of his father-land have always been noted as
artisans.

170 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. JOHN LACKIE.

This gentleman is of Scotch descent, and is the son of Andrew
and Elizabeth Waddill Lackie. He was born in Barnet, Cale-
donia County, Vermont, on the 26th of December, 1823. His
father was a sturdy farmer of the Green Mountain State. John's
education was obtained in the Academic Schools of his native
State, where he remained until 1844, when he removed to this
State, and settled in Stark County, where he commenced farming.
He here served afterward as a Justice of the Peace for four years,
and was a County Supervisor for about twenty years. In 1882,
he was elected to the Lower House of the Legislature from the
Twenty-fifth District, on the Republican ticket, defeating his
opponent by about one thousand three hundred votes. Mr.
Lackie is a Master Mason. He is comfortably situated in life,
and owns about three hundred acres of good land in this State,
and the same number of acres in the State of Iowa. He is a man
of large build — a hale, hearty farmer. He is a clear and logical
thinker, and, though reticent at times, he is one of the active
workers in the present body of Legislators. He resides at
Osceola, Stark County, and his worth as a man is recognized by
his friends and neighbors, as his handsome majority at his last
election bears evidence.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 171

HON. JOSEPH F. LAWRENCE.

He is a native New Englander, having been born at Lee, New
Hampshire, December 6th, 1836. His father was a farmer, and
Mr. Lawrence, himself, labored upon a farm until he was thirty
years of age, thus gaining some of the most yaluable experiences
and most useful information, which it is the lot of man to enjoy.
He received his education in the district schools of New Hamp-
shire, completing his routine of studies in the Academy of New
London, in the same State. After leaving his farm, Mr. Law-
rence engaged in business, pursuing and achieving in the realms
of commerce, five years, when, at the age of thirty-five, he came
to Chicago, where he has since been engaged in loaning his own
capital, and that of Eastern friends. His Chicago residence is
situated at 3*73 Park Avenue. He is a Republican of life stand-
ing, practically speaking, and was for six years County Commis-
sioner of Strafford County, in his native State, and a member of
its Board of Agriculture for five years. He has held no public
offices in Illinois, except that of West Chicago Park Commis-
sioner, which he resigned upon his election to the House of
Representatives, in 1882, from the Fourth Chicago District. Mr.
Lawrence is a very practical, common-sense gentleman, whom
those who are unacquainted with his amiable traits of character,
might mistake for one who is sour and morose. Although a
careful financier, and a confirmed man of business, there is a
generous and pleasant side to his nature, which greatly endears
him to his constituents and acquaintances. He is a tall man, of
excellent phvsical proportions, dark in complexion, and his hair
and beard are quite gray. He knows his duty and will do it.

172 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. DAVID T. LINEGAR.

This prominent member of the House of Representatives, was
born February 12th, 1830, at Melford, Clermont County, Ohio.
His parents removed to Hamilton County, Ohio, in 1831, re-
maining there until 1840, when they located in Spencer County,
Indiana. In 1858, Mr. Linegar came to Wayne County, Illinois,
whence he removed to Cairo, where he now resides. His literary
education was acquired in the district schools of Indiana. He
read law with Hon. L. Q. DeBuler, of Rockport, Indiana, but
acquired most of his knowledge, requisite to his admission to the
Bar, by close application to his books at odd hours and of evenings,
while engaged in teaching school. Prior to 1873, Mr. Linegar
was a Republican, believing in the principles which that party
had prominently advocated from its birth. He was Postmaster
of Cairo for two years, and, in 1872, was one of the Republican
electors for the State at large. He became disgusted at the
excesses of the administration, soon after the accession of General
Grant, however, and, in 1874, joined the Democrat party, be-
cause he believed it to be right that he should do so. He was
elected to the House of Representatives in 1882, by a large for-
eign vote, which was almost all cast in his favor. Mr. Linegar
is one of the leading spirits of the Democratic side of the House
of Representatives, and is one of its ablest members. He is
large in physical proportions, of fair complexion and wears a
very long, light colored beard. He is a powerful debater, and a
gentleman of large heart and generous disposition. He is a man
loved by his friends and feared by his foes.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 17S

HON. DAVID T. LITTLER,

The subject of this sketch was born at Clifton, Greene County,
Ohio, February 7th, 1836. His father was a teacher, by profession,
and died at the early age of thirty-nine, when David was but
four years old. The widowed mother was thus left with seven
children, of whom David was the youngest son. The family
was supported by the older brothers until David attained his
majority, when he continued to maintain her until she died, in
1875, in the seventy-fifth year of her age. Poverty drove him
to Illinois at the age of twenty-one, and he settled at Lincoln, in
Logan County, where he worked at the carpenter's trade for two
years, saving enough money to support him during a course of
studv in the office of S. C. Parks, now Judge of a Federal Court
in Montana. He was admitted to the Bar in 1860, soon after
which, he was elected Justice of the Peace, and, later, appointed
Master-in-Chancery for Logan County, by Judge Scott, now Chief
Justice of the Supreme Court of Illinois. Prior to his course of
law study, he had received a fair common school education in
Ohio. He held the above office until 1868, when he came to
Springfield, and formed a law partnership with Henry S. Greene.
This firm remained as first organized nearly two years, when the
Honorable Milton Hay was admitted into it, and the firm name
became Hay, Greene & Littler. This firm was regarded as a very
strong combination of legal talent, and continued until 1881.
Mr. Littler has enjoyed some very important offices of honor and
trust. In 1866, Andrew Johnson, the President, appointed him
Collector of Internal Revenue for the Springfield District. He
held this office until 1868, when he resigned. He has amassed a
considerable fortune, by bold speculation and close attention to
business, and he now spends most of his time in his private
business, when not engaged in official duties. He is a Mason
and Knight Templar, and a rock-ribbed and firmly-rooted Repub-
lican. He was elected by a vote of 9,600, as the minority can-
didate from the Capital District. In* 1868, he was married to
Miss Kate Logan, who died in 1875. He has one child, a boy,
aged twelve years. In person, he is portly and noble looking,
gruff in conversation, but kind and generous, nevertheless.

1*74 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. AUGUSTUS N. LODGE.

Mr. Lodge is a Hoosier by birth and a Sucker by adoption. He
was born in Madison, Indiana, January 31st, 1831. His father's
ancestors were Quakers, and bis mother was a relative of Daniel
Boone, the celebrated Kentucky Indian fighter. His father was
a merchant at the time of the birth of Mr. Lodge. In November,
1856, Mr. Lodge came to Springfield, Illinois, and left that city
for Williamson County, a year later. He was educated in private
schools and a Naval Academy, located at Annapolis, Maryland.
He was graduated from the St. Louis Medical College in 1858,
and began practicing his profession at Marion, Illinois, where he
now resides, soon afterward. He was a midshipman in the
United States Navy, appointed by President Polk, in 1846. He
resigned his position in the Navy in 1850. He is and has always
been a Democrat in politics, and served his county in the capacity
of Superintendent of Public Instruction, from 1869 to 1877. He
was elected as the minority Representative of the Fifty-first
District, in 1882. Mr. Lodge is an Episcopalian and holds mem-
bership in lodges of Masons, Odd Fellows and Knights of Honor.
He is a public spirited gentleman, of varied accomplishments,
and is worthy of the honor conferred upon him by his constit-
uents in electing him to the honorable station, which he so ably
fills. In person, he is below the average stature, and well pro-
portioned, dark complexion. He is quiet and undemonstrative
in disposition, and is possessed of a happy vein of humor, which
often crops out in conversation, when least expected. He is
very sociable and agreeable in his intercourse with the people.
During his Naval experience, Mr. Lodge performed garrison
duty on the west coast of Mexico, and was present at the siege of
Vera Cruz.

BIOGBAPHICAL SKETCHES. 175

HON. ROBERT W. McCARTNEY.

This Representative was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, in
1843. His father was a farmer, of Scotch descent, who had
linked his fortunes with those of Miss Jean Brown. In 1867,
Mr. McCartney came to Metropolis, Illinois. His education is of
wide range and good quality. He is a graduate of a Commercial
College, and of the Ohio State and Union Law College. In
1861, he enlisted as a private in the Sixth Ohio, and came out of
the service as a Captain. He was twice wounded, and is no less
proud of his scars than his country is of the gallant deeds which
resulted in them. He adheres in belief to the Methodist Episco-
pal Church, and is a Free Mason and Knight Templar. He is a
Republican throughout, and has served his city in the capacity
of Prosecuting Attorney for three years. He was elected County
Judge of Massac County in 1866, and held the office for nine
consecutive years. In 18C2, he was chosen to represent his dis-
trict in the Lower House of the Thirty-third General Assembly,
and is engaged in doing his duty, with marked ability and rare
good judgment. Although a lawyer by profession, he is also a
member of the Wm. Towel Lumber Company, saw millers and
boat-builders, of- Metropolis, Illinois, and owns valuable farm
lands, amounting to over three hundred acres, near his home. He is
above medium in stature, and sandy in complexion. He is keen of
perception, and seems ever on the alert for some development,
which may give affairs a different turn from that which seems
to be generally anticipated. He is sedate and grave in demeanor,
dignified in bearing and intensely practical in conversation, illus-
tration, comparison or debate.

176 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. JOHN R. McFIE.

Representative McFie was born in Washington County, Illi-
nois, October 9th, 1848. His father was a farmer at the time of
his birth, and taught school in the winter. Mr. McFie received
a very fair common school education, under rather unfavorable
auspices. Two or three years after his birth his parents removed
to Coulterville, Randolph County, where he has since resided.
During the Summer of 1863, his father died, and, in December
of the same year, young McFie entered the army, enlisting as a
private in Company "E," of the Thirtieth Illinois Infantry, serv-
ing until the close of the War of the Rebellion. He was with
Sherman's Army on its memorable March to the Sea. After the
War, he returned to Coulterville, where he engaged in merchan-
dising. In 1868, he began reading law under the instruction of
Gen. J. Blackburn Jones, of Sparta. He was admitted to the
Bar in 1870, and began practicing his profession at his present
home. He was elected to the House in 1878, was made Secre-
tary of the House Caucus in 1879, and was appointed Chairman
of the Committee on Commerce at the same session. He was
chosen in the House Caucus to second the nomination of Gen.
John A. Logan, for the United States Senatorship, for the
Southern part of the State, performing his duty with satisfaction
to his party and honor to himself. He is a member of the United
Presbyterian Church, but does not hold membership in any
secret society. He is a Stalwart Republican, and was elected
from the Forty-eighth District by the largest vote polled by any
one of the six candidates in the field. In person, he is of average
stature and light in complexion. He is mild and generous in
disposition, forcible, earnest and convincing as a debater, and a
shrewd and successful politician. He is one of the leading men
upon the Republican side of the House, and possesses no
superiors and few equals among its members.

BIOGRAPHICAT/ SKKTCHES. 177

HON. THOMAS J. McNALLY.

This gentleman was born in New York City, June 24th, 1847,
his ancestors being of Irish extraction. The subject of this
sketch came to Illinois in 1850, locating in Chicago, where he
znow resides. His education was principally acquired in the
common schools of New York. He served his apprenticeship as
a machinist in New York City, and became quite an adept in the
trade, which he followed for some time afterward. He now
•owns an interest in the Chicago House, a very prominent and
well patronized hotel in that city, where he resides. He is not
a member of any church or secret society. In politics, he is a
Democrat, but has never held any public position, prior to his
election to the House of Reptesentatives in 1882, from the Third
Chicago District. His residence in the city is as 323 South
Olark Street. Mr. McNally is a large and portly man, of strongly
marked characteristics, and a somewhat peculiar, but very polite
.and obliging disposition. He is of light complexion, free and
generous in spirits, jovial and light hearted in conversation, de-
termined and persistent in intention and execution, and fertile
in imagination and resource. He is one of those men, who pre-
fer broad and sweeping positions to those, which appear to deal
with minute details, and, following that general plan, is not bur-
dened with detail in either conversation or discussion. He states
the broad fact, and accepts a plain fact without indulging par-
ticulars upon the one hand, or requiring them upon the other.
This is one of his virtues, which lias its weight in the formation
•of character, and its effect upon the estimation placed upon him
by others.

178 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. JOHN G. MANAHAN.

Mr. Manahan was born in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania,
May 12th, 1837. His father was a merchant. The family came
to Illinois in 1846, and John attended Knox College, at Gales-
burg, one term. He read law with Hon. E. N. Kirk, deceased,
and was in due time admitted to the Bar. May 24th, 1861, he
enlisted in the Thirteenth Regiment of Illinois Infantry Volun-
teers, as a three years' man. After a service of two years and
four months, he was wounded in the attack on Vicksburg and
transferred to the Invalid Corps, in which he served the residue
of his term. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and
Ancient Order of United Workmen. He has always been a
Republican, having cast his first vote for Fremont, in 1856. He
was Alderman of Sterling, his place of residence, for six years ;
City Attorney, three years ; Supervisor of his township, two
years, and Mayor three years, and was elected to the House of
Representatives in 1882, by a large majority, from the Nine-
teenth District. He has acquired a considerable fortune by close
• attention to business, and judicious speculation and investments.
He is a director of the Sterling Gas-Light Company, and, also, of
the Orton Manufacturing Company, of his city. He also owns
a valuable farm. His father is still living, at the advanced age
of Seventy-six years. He is of average stature, has a sandy
beard, with hair a few shades darker. He is a gentleman of fine
talents and varied accomplishments, and honors his office and the
constituency, whose votes elevated him to it. He is regarded as
a first-class lawyer in patent cases, making that branch of prac-
tice a specialty.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 1*79

HON. TREVANYON L. MATHEWS.

Mr. Mathews was born at Florence, Washington County, Penn-
sylvania, March 1st, 1849. In 1865, he came West, locating in
Fulton County, where he remained four years, then removing to
Beardstown, in Cass County, where he resided until 1876. He
then located at Virginia, in the same county, where he now re-
sides. His education was acquired in the common schools of
Pennsylvania, but the printing office contributed much, which he
failed to obtain by more scholastic, but less practical training.
He was apprenticed to a carriage manufacturer, and worked at
the trade thus learned, for six years, after which he clerked in
various county offices, and, finally became editor of the Virginia
Gazette. He likes journalism better than anything else, and pro-
poses ree'ntering the profession at the expiration of his term of
office. He was a candidate for Circuit Clerk, of his county, at
one time, but, he being a Republican and the county largely
Democratic, he missed connection, and, in the phrase of the rail-
roader, "got left." He was elected to the House of Representa-
tives in 1882, as the minority candidate from the Thirty -fourth
District. He is a Methodist, Odd Fellow and member of the
Ancient Order of United Workmen. In person, he is of medium
stature, dark in complexion ; has straight, black hair, and is as
energetic and perseverent as any one could desire. He is polite
to all with whom he is brought in social intercourse, and is an
able and worthy Representative. He is generous and kind in
disposition.

180 'BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. JOSEPH B. MESSICK.

He is a native of Illinois, having been born in Macoupin
County, January 29th, 1847. His father was a farmer, and his
early experiences have had their influence in the formation of
his character for strict integrity and undaunted perseverance.
He removed to St. Clair County, Illinois, in 3872. His education
was obtained in the public schools of the "State of Macoupin,"
and Shurtliff College, at Upper Alton. He enlisted as a private
in Company "I," One Hundred and Forty-fourth Illinois Infantry
Volunteers, in 1864, and served until the close of the Rebellion.
He is not a member of any religious denomination or secret so-
ciety. In politics, he is a staunch Republican, having espoused
the cause of that party when it was but an infant among politi-
cal organizations, and faithfully adhered to it ever since. He is
a lawyer by profession, and enjoys the enviable reputation of
being a very excellent one. He is one of the attorneys of the
Indianapolis & St Louis Railroad Company. He was Judge of
the City Court of East St. Louis, from 1875, until that tribunal
and he, who presided over it, were legislated, the one out of ex-
istence, and the other out of office, in 1878. He is now the mi-
nority ^Representative from his district, elected in November,
1882. In person, he is dark and gigantic. He is an able debater;
witty and incisive, and the members of his branch of the As-
sembly would enjoy being hauled over the coals by any other
member full as well as by Mr. Messick. He is exceedingly en-
tertaining as a conversationalist, and is generous and kind in
disposition.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 181

HON. AUGUST METTE.

His father was a musician, by profession, in the Province of
Hesse, Germany, when this gentleman was born, in 1844. The
family came to the United States in 1854, locating in Baltimore,
Maryland. Mi\ Mette came to Illinois in 1870, establishing him-
self in business, as a manufacturer of soda-water, ginger-ale,
mead, cider, etc., in Chicago. His education was acquired in the
public schools of Baltimore, he being instructed in music, at the
same time. In the early part of the War, he enlisted in the
Sixth Maryland Regiment, was wounded, and, in 1863, honorably
discharged from the service. He is an Odd Fellow, as such
being also a member of the Degree of Rebekah, and belongs to
the German Order known as Harigari, but holds no membership
or relation of communion in any church. In politics, he is a
Democrat, having affiliated with that party about two years
since, from motives of public policy. He feels that the Demo-
cratic party is the party of the people, and that the interests of
the people demand its supremacy in the affairs of the govern-
ment. He is now an occupant of a public office for the first time,
having been elected to the House of Representatives, by the
largest vote cast for any candidate upon his ticket, from the
Eleventh Cook County District, in 1882. In personal appearance,
he is short, and light in complexion. He is quiet and dignified
in bearing ; polite and generous in his intercourse with the
public ; firm in opinion and incisive in debate. He is a man,
who cannot be coerced into measures, but is obliging and gener-
ous when treated as a gentleman should be.

182 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. THOMAS F. MITCHELL.

This prominent .Representative was born at Hillsborough,
Highland County, Ohio, December 28th, 1828, his father then
being a brawny blacksmith and farmer. In 1849, Mr. Mitchell
removed to Kentucky, coming to Illinois in 1853, and locating at
Bloomington, where he now resides. His education was acquired
in the common schools of his native county, and Ripley College,
Brown County, Ohio. He has been a carpenter, lumber dealer
and grain dealer, and has also read law. He is a prominent Odd
Fellow and Free Mason, having held the offices of Grand Master
and Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, in the
former order. In religious belief, he is a Methodist ; in politics,
a firm and unterrified Republican. His party and people have
honored him with many offices of honor and trust, and he has
filled each of them with marked ability and to the full satisfac-
tion of his constituents. He has been Superintendent of Streets
in his city for two years, a member of the City Board of Educa-
tion, five years, and is now Treasurer of the State Board of
Education. He is now serving his fourth term in the Lower
House of the General Assembly, preferring that position to one
in the Senate, which he might be filling, if he had chosen to do
so. In the first session of which he was a member, he was
Chairman of the Committee on State Institutions ; Chairman of
the Committee on Appropriations in the second ; Committee on
Penitentiaries in the third, and is now Chairman of the Railroad
Committee. He is of Scotch and Irish descent. Mr. Mitchell is
one of the leaders on the Republican side of the House of Rep-
resentative?, and is regarded as one of the ablest men in that
branch of the Assembly. He is tall and commanding in person,
his hair and beard are quite gray, and he is a very forcible
speaker in both conversation and debate. He is very liberaj,
obliging and kind in disposition, and is generally esteemed and
admired.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHED. 183

HON. JOHN W. MOORE.

Mr. Moore was born near Bloomington, Indiana, August 15th,
1847, his father then being a farmer. The family came to Illi-
nois in 1849, locating in Adams County. In 1877, Mr. Moore
removed to Mound Station, Brown County, where he now re-
sides. His education was acquired in the common schools near
Beverly, and the college at Abingdon, Knox County, where he
was graduated, receiving the degree of Bachelor of Science.
Mr. Moore taught school for a time after the completion of his
scholastic career ; but is now engaged in farming, and breeding
and shipping live stock. He is particularly proud of his two
families of fine short-horns, "Mazurka" and "Waterloo J." In re-
ligious belief, Mr. Moore is a Christian, being a member of the
denomination indicated by the word. He is not a member of
any of the secret orders. Politically, he is a confirmed and un-
compromising Democrat, having become one when he first
arrived at man's estate, and continued true to the faith ever
since. It is said that his father was in Nauvoo when the cele-
brated and notorious Joseph Smith, so-called prophet of the
Mormon Church, was slain by the indignant populace. The sub-
ject of this sketch was elected to the House of Representatives
in 1882, over A. B. Allen, his opponent, by a majority of about
five thousand votes, from the Thirty-sixth District. Mr. Moore
is a quiet, genteel and unobtrusive gentleman, having a well cul-
tivated intellect, and being possessed of rare good judgment.
He is not one of those men who speak upon all occasions and
•questions ; but one who bottles his thoughts — to use a metaphor
— for an opportune moment. He is below medium height; dark
in complexion ; pleasant and agreeable in his intercourse with
•the people, and generous and kind in disposition. His pride in
the fine cattle, which he breeds, is said to be fully justified by
facts.

184 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. ISAAC L. MORRISON.

Isaac Lafayette Morrison was born in Barren County, Ken-
tucky, in 1826. His ancestors, in both branches of the family,
were American patriots. His grandfather on his father's side
was a soldier in the Revolutionary Army, and lost his life in the
cause of free government, at the Battle of the Brandywine.
His grandfather on his mother's side, was also a Revolutionary
Soldier, who served in the campaigns of the Carolinas and
Virginia. The father of Mr. Morrison was a farmer, and the
earlier lessons of patience and perseverence taught our subject,,
were the result of farm experience, as they have been in so many
other noted instances. Mr. Morrison was educated in the
common schools and Masonic Seminary of his native State, andr
upon completing his course, entered into the study of law with
commendable zeal. He was admitted to the Bar, and, in 1851,
came to Illinois; locating at Jacksonville, where he is now the
senior member of the celebrated firm of Morrison, Whitlock &
Lippincott, one of the strongest legal combinations in the West.
Mr. Morrison is one of the foremost men in his party in Illinois.
He helped organize the first Republican Convention in Illinois,
at Bloomington, in 1856 ; was a delegate to the Baltimore Con-
vention, which re-nominated Lincoln'for the Presidency, in 1864,
and has been a recognized leader of his party for many years.
He is now serving his third term in the House, having been
elected over Cowen, his opponent for the minority office, in
1882, by a very handsome majority, in the Thirty-eighth District.
Mr. Morrison is the leader of the Republican party in the House.
He is a very kind and agreeable gentleman, and an able and
fearless debater

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 185

HON. GEORGE W. MURRAY.

Hon. George W. Murray, of Sangamon County, Illinois, was
born at Covington, Miami County, Ohio, July Yth, 1839. Mr.
Murray's education was acquired in the common schools and High
School of Dayton, Ohio. He is a lawyer by profession, having
commenced the studies necessary to qualify him for his profes-
sion, in the office of General Moses B. Walker, of Dayton, Ohio,
in 1868. He was admitted to the Bar at Dayton, in 1870. He
was a member of the City Council of the above named city from
1869 to 1872, and came to Illinois in 1874, locating in Spring-
field, where he at once entered upon a successful practice of his
chosen profession. He holds membership in no church, but is a
member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Mr. Murray is
a man of pleasant address and genteel manners. He is tall and
slender, dark in complexion ; keen of perception ; careful, cool
and grave in debate, although inclined to perpetrate a dry joke
occasionally, which is the more amusing for being presented in
his inimitably droll manner. He is one of those cautious and
deliberate men, who seldom give way to the promptings of pas-
sion or avarice. He is noted for his strict honesty and unim-
peachable fidelity to all trusts confided to his keeping, and is a
safe man to entrust with legislative authority. He is a Demo-
crat in political faith, and was easily elected upon the majority
ticket, to represent the Thirty-ninth District in the House of
Representatives of the Thirty-third General Assembly. He is a
shrewd politician, without the reckless disregard of moral prin-
ciples, which sometimes characterize the career of men of his
opportunities and ability. Mr. Murray will be heard, when ques-
tions of importance are under discussion.

186 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES,

HON. GEORGE W. MURRAY.

This gentleman is known as George Murray, of Scott, to dis-
tinguish him from George W. Murray, of Sangamon. He was
born in Greene County, Illinois, in 1850. His father was a
cooper at the time of George's birth, but is now engaged in
farming in Missouri. The subject of this sketch located in
Scott County in 1870, on his farm of one hundred and fifty acres.
He received a substantial education in the district schools of
Illinois, and has turned his knowledge to agriculture and the
ministry. He is an .ordained Minister of the Baptist Church,
•and Moderator of the State Association of his denomination. He
Is a firm Democrat, and was made Superintendent of the Pauper
Farm of his county, by the Board of Supervisors, in 1879, con-
tinuing to manage that institution until elected to the House of
Representatives in 1882, from the Thirty-seventh District.
There was no especial opposition to his candidacy, and he ran
ahead of his ticket. Mr. Murray has risen by his own efforts
and intrinsic worth, from the station of a farmer boy, to that of
a Legislator of his State. He possesses the unqualified confi-
dence of his constituents, and has a hold upon the hearts of his
people, which is worth more than all of the chicanery and wire-
pulling ever practiced. He was elected without the expenditure
of a dollar for electioneering purposes, and his friends were much
disappointed when he refused to retain the Superintendency of
the County Farm, for the reason that he could not give it proper
personal attention during the session of the Legislature. In
person, he is of average stature, well proportioned, and plain in
dress. He is incisive and aggressive in debate, and plain and
sociable in ordinary conversation.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 187

HON. REVILO NEWTON.

Mr. Newton was born at Tonica, LaSalle County, Illinois,
April nth, 1842. His father was a native of New York, and a
Major in the State Militia, prior to his removal to Illinois. He
was also a soldier in the Blackhawk "War. In 1968, the subject
of this sketch went to Iowa, remaining until 1872, when he re-
turned to this State, settling at Minonk, Woodford County. His
education was acquired in the common schools of this State. By
occupation, he is a merchant. In 1862, he enlisted in the Eighty-
eighth Regiment of Illinois Infantry Volunteers, as a private,
serving two years, when he was discharged on account of sick-
ness. He is a Methodist in religious belief, and a Master Mason.
In politics, he has been firmly adherent to his early convictions,
which were most decidedly Democratic. He has served as a
Justice of the Peace for four years, and as a member of the
Board of Education of his city, for six years. He was, also,
Mayor of his city, two years, and Treasurer, four years. In 1882,
he was elected to the House of Representatives from the
Twentieth District, running with the ticket. Mr. Newton is one of
those quiet, unostentatious men, who are the safety of the people's
interests, in our Legislative halls. He abhors all forms of pecula-
tions under the name of appropriations, and will make himself
heard upon some of the private bills, which amount to nothing
more or less than a misappropriation of the people's money, now
pending consideration. In person, he is of medium height;
rather light in complexion ; quiet and dignified in demeanor ;
kind, generous and obliging. He is a man of considerable
influence in the House.

188 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. JOHN L. NICHOLS.

The gentleman, whose name heads this sketch, was born in
Clinton County, Illinois, on the 21st day of December, 1837. He
is the son of Turner L. and Mary Johnson Nichols, both Ameri-
cans. His father was a well-to-do farmer and stock raiser, of
Clinton County. Mr. Nichols is a dealer in agricultural imple-
ments. He was a Justice of the Peace in Clement Township, for
two years. At the commencement of the War for the Union,
Mr. Nichols responded to the President's call for Volunteers,
and, on the 15th day of July, 1861, he enlisted as a private in
the Thirtieth Illinois Volunteer Infantry. He was promoted
several times, and, when mustered out, August llth, 1865, he
was Captain of one of the Companies in the Thirtieth Regiment.
Before the War, he was a Democrat, but since the close of the
Rebellion, he has voted and acted with the Republican party.
The present is his third term in the Lower House of the Legis-
lature. He was elected at the last election by a very handsome
vote. Mr. Nichols is a pleasant, affable gentleman, is of medium
height and dark complexion. He is a sharp, shrewd Represen-
tative, and is a most earnest worker, He ably represents his
district in the Thirty-third General Assembly. In secret society
circles, Mr. Nichols is a leader, being a member of the Masonic
fraternity and of the Ancient Order of United Workmen

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 189

HON. THOMAS NOWERS.

Mr. Nowers was born in Oneida County, New York, February
12th, 1834. His father, whose Christian name was also Thomas,
was a farmer, when little Tom was born. In 18&9, the family
came to Illinois with him, settling in Mercer County, where they
remained for two years, when they removed to Rock Island
County, remaining five years, finally reaching Henry County,
where he now resides. His education has been wholly acquired
in the common schools of his various places of residence, and by
observation, experience and persistent personal effort. Mr.
Nowers' occupation is that of a private banker and merchant.
He belongs to no church or secret order. Mr. Nowers is a man
of rather remarkable energy and business tact, and has no such
vanity in either dress or reputation, as so often actuates men in
the affairs of life. He is strictly a man of business, and does
not meddle with other men's affairs, so long as he can find em-
ployment in his own, and the time never comes, when a man of
his executive ability and personal characteristics does not feel
that his affairs demand attention. He is a staunch Republican,
having voted and acted with that party ever since he has attained
his majority, and he cannot see that his party is guilty of any-
thing, not sufficiently general in its evils, to have excited the
cupidity of its political opponents and involved them in the
maelstrom of excesses, which is charged upon Republicanism, as
deeply as it has the devotees of the party in power. He feels
that his party is as pure to-day as in the days of national tribu-
lation, and that it does, can and will punish the light-fingered
gentry, Democrats and Republicans, who have formed rings and
cliques to defraud the government. He has been a member of
the Board of Supervisors of Henry County, at various periods-
for eleven years, and was elected to the House of Representa,
tives by a respectable majority, in 1882. He is above the average
height, kind, shrewd and generous, yet firm and dignified.

190 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. JOHN O'CONNELL

His name is the index to his nationality. He was born in
Ireland, in 1836, to his father, Michael, who had married Miss
Ellen McCarty. His father was an industrious farmer, and little
John soon became an adept with the implements usually em-
ployed in agriculture, on the Emerald Isle. Mr. O'Connell came
to the United States in 1860, locating in New York City, where
he remained, until he came to Illinois, some ten years ago. He
now resides at Joliet, Will county. Mr. O'Connell received his
education in private schools in his native country. He is an in-
telligent and industrious laborer, and is not ashamed of the fact.
He is principally employed in the mills of his city. He is a
lineal descendant of the patriotic statesman, Daniel O'Connell,
famous in the annals of Ireland's struggle for liberty. Mr.
O'Connell is Catholic in religion, and is a member of each of the
following named secret societies: Ancient Order of Hibernians,
Ancient Order of United Workmen, Knights of Labor, Indepen-
dent Order of Odd Fellows, and the Amalgamated Association of
Iron and Steel Workers. He is an avowed anti-monopolist in poli-
tics, and may ever be found battling in the cause of honest labor.
He was elected by a fusion of the Labor and Trade, Anti-monopoly,.
Greenback and Democratic parties, in 1882, to the House of
Representatives, the first office he has ever held. His majority
was the largest ever given a candidate on any ticket, in his
county. In person, Mr. O'Connell is above medium height, sandy
in complexion, and intelligent in countenance. He is as kind-
hearted as a gill ; yet bold as a lion. He is a man of the people,
and will fight for them and stand firmly in his place as an advo-
cate of their rights. He possesses a large fund of that wit, for
which the Irish people have such a widespread reputation.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 191

HON. PATRICK O'MARA.

This gentleman was born in the County of Galway, Ireland,.
August 21st, 1848. His father was a farmer, and little Pat
learned to dig and delve in the soil of his native isle, only in
play, for when he was but three years of age, his parents came
across the surging ocean, and became denizens of the land in
which the footprints of John Bull do not exist upon the neck*
of a nobility-ridden Nation. The family first made its home
near Lancaster, Pennsylvania ; but did not tarry long there,
finally locating at Rock Island, Illinois. The education of this
gentleman is very excellent. He attended one year at Knox
College, Galesburg, Illinois, and was graduated at the Soldiers'"
College, Fulton, Illinois ; and the law department of the State
University, Iowa City, Iowa. It is scarcely necessary to state
that he is a lawyer, and a good one, too. He has battled down
adverse circumstances, and triumphed over all of the obstacles to in-
tellectual and political progresses only a determined Irishman can.
He is a Catholic in religion, and holds no membership in secret
societies. He is an unterrified and faithful Democrat, was elected
a member of the House of Representatives in 1880, and re-
elected in 1882. He served three years in the army during the
Rebellion, as a private in Company "I," of the One Hundred and
Twenty-sixth Regiment of Illinois Infantry Volunteers. He is
a man of average stature ; dark in complexion, and dignified in
bearing. He possesses a powerful mind, and a fair share of the
characteristic wit of his race. He is a genial and entertaining;
conversationalist, and a generous and free-hearted gentleman.

192 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES

HON. JOHN O'SHEA.

Mr. O'Shea is one of the most youthful members of the House
of Representatives, having been born in Chicago, December 15th,
1859. At the time of his birth, his father was largely interested
in a firm of bridge builders, now known as the American Bridge
Company. He probably had little thought that his Johnny
would be one of the Solons of his State before he had seen
twenty-four summers, but such is the case. Mr. O'Shea has
never resided out of his native city, having been educated in its
public schools and St. John's Academy. He is a laboring- man,
having been engaged at the Stock Yards in Chicago, at the time
of his election. He knows that the workman is worthy of his
hire, and, in all Legislative matters, which £ may interest that
class, directly or indirectly, his voice and vote will be recorded
in its behalf. He is a devout Catholic and a member of the
Ancient Order of Hibernians. In politics, he is a Democrat,
born, bred, educated and confirmed, and was elected from the
Eleventh Chicago District, on that ticket, by a very pronounced
majority, running ahead of McNeal, some fifteen hundred votes.
He is a very sensible and dignified young gentleman, whose head
has not been turned by his political success. He is beardless, at
least closely and cleanly shaven; dark in complexion, and
possesses such a disposition to do what is right, that he will not
be led astray by the exciting incidents, which sometimes char-
acterize the sessions of his branch of'the Assembly. He is
shrewd, gentlemanly, polite and amiable.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 193

HON. JAMES L. OWEN.

James Lakin Owen, eldest son of Francis Owen and Keziah
Wright, was born September 19th, 1824, near Winchester,
Clarke County, Kentucky. He removed, with his parents, to
Putnam County, Indiana, in 1827, thence to Will County, Illi-
nois, where he has since resided, with the exception of a few
years in California, about 1849, when the gold fever was at its
height. To the subject of this sketch, belongs the honor of
erecting the first steam saw-mill and sawing the first lumber ever
sawed by steam, in the State of California. Strange as it may
appear, Mr. Owen found a wife on the Golden Coast, having
there been married to Miss Catherine Madden, a lady widely
known among the early Californians, for her beauty and accom-
plishments. The father of our subject, was a farmer and local
preacher. His grandfather was a Chaplain in the Revolutionary
War, subsequently being the Private Secretary of General
Washington. He was present at the surrender of Yorktown.
His great uncle, Edward Cullom, was a member of the first Con-
stitutional Convention of Illinois. Mr. Owen is a relative of
Hon. Shelby M. Cullom, United States Senator. Our subject
was educated in " Brush College," being "graduated with honor."
He is a farmer by occupation, having made stock-raising a
specialty for the last twenty-five years. He is a member of the
Methodist Episcopal Church. He was a Henry Clay Whig prior
to the organization of the Republican party, when he cast his for-
tunes with the new venture, to which he has never been unfaith-
ful. His present place of residence is Mokena, Will County,
Illinois, in the Fifteenth District, from which he was elected to
the House of Representatives, in 1882.

194 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. HILON A. PARKER.

Mr. Parker was born at Plessis, in the town of Alexandria,
Jefferson County, New York, in 1841, his father being a genuine
New England farmer of the old school, and his grand-father
having fought for his country in the Revolutionary War. In 1862,
Mr. Parker enlisted as a private in the Tenth Regiment of New
York Artillery, being mustered out at the end of his three years ser-
vice, as First Lieutenant. In 1866, he removed to Iowa, remaining
in the Hawkeye State most of the time for ten years, when he came
to Illinois, locating at Englewood, Cook County. His education
was acquired in the common schools and academies of his native
State. He is, by occupation, a civil engineer, having probably pat-
terned after the illustrious Father of his Country in this regard, al-
though we have no account of any hatchetted cherry-tree in his
father's garden. However, Mr. Parker's character for truth and
veracity needs no circumstance of this nature to give it weight. He
is regarded as a truthful and upright man, wherever he is known.
In religious belief, he is a Presbyterian; but he is not a member
of any of the secret orders. He is a thorough Republican in
politics, and was elected to the House of Representatives in 1882,
from the Second District of Cook County. He is a shrewd and
energetic guardian of the interests of his constituency, and a
strong man in the House. He is noble and commanding in
physique, dignified in bearing and polite in his intercourse with
the people. He is a man, who is generous enough to be courteous
to all, irrespective of race, sex, age, color or social position. He
is quiet and unostentatious in demeanor, except when laboring
under strong mental excitement, when he at once becomes
eloquent and impressive in carriage, gesture and speech.

BIOGRAPHICAL SI£ETCHES. 195

HON. JOHN L. PARISH.

Mr. Parish was born in Chicago, February 22d, 1854. His
father was a ship-carpenter by trade, and many a craft, which
rode the billows of the great lakes, bore the marks of his handi-
work. The family removed to Fulton, Illinois, in 1858, and,
afterward to Ottawa, returning to Chicago in 1866. Mr. Parish
is one of the best educated young members of the Lower House,
and nothing but the common schools of his State, and the gener-
ous efforts of himself are responsible for that most gratifying
state of affairs. He began reading law in 1873, was admitted to
the Bar three years later, and practised his profession for the en-
suing three years; but the law was not sufficiently exciting to
gratify his ambitious nature, and, in March, 1882, he began his
career as a journalist, by becoming a correspondent of the
Chicago Daily News, and has been in the service of that paper
ever since. He says that his military career was confined to a
1st Lieutenancy in a torch-light brigade, during the last presiden-
tial campaign. Mr. Parish is a member of the Baptist Church ;
.a Free Mason; member of the Royal Arcanum and Ancient
Order of United Workmen. He has been a strong Republican
since he has attained his majority, and was elected to the Lower
House of the Thirty-second General Assembly in 1880, and re-
elected in 1882, receiving the highest vote polled in the district,
each time. He is essentially a self-made man, having left the
parental roof at the youthful age of thirteen; he made so much
of a success that five years later, he found himself able to support
a wife; so he married a handsome little lady, and they are now
the proud parents of four children. Mr. Parish is a noble speci-
men of manhood. Tall and well proportioned, dark in complex-
ion, and neat in dress. It is little wonder that the ladies
pronounce him '•'•the man of the Legislature." Added to his
magnificent personal appearance, are such qualities of mind and
heart as have created for him a large circle of warm friends.

Since the above sketch was written, Mr. Parish has been ap-
pointed Consul to Chemnitz, Germany. Fortunately he will not
be compelled to resign, as a member of the House, as he will
probably not be required to leave for Chemnitz until about the
first of June. The Consulate at Chemnitz will have in Mr.
Parish a representative who will be a credit to the service.,

196 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. ISAAC N. PEARSON.

Mr. Pearson was born in Mercer County, Pennsylvania, in
July, 1842, his father being a merchant, and member of the State
Legislature at that time. When Isaac was but three years of
age, the family removed to Lawrence County, in the same State.
He came to Illinois in 1850, locating in McDonough County.
His education was what he terms very limited, being derived
from the common and high schools of his time, and more than
all by personal exertion out of school, and away from its privil-
eges. At eighteen years of age, he became Deputy Circuit Clerk
of McDonough County, serving four years ; clerked in a bank
four years, when he was elected Circuit Clerk, serving four
years in that capacity. At the expiration of his term of office,,
he was made Cashier of the Union National Bank, of Macomb,
Illinois, resigning his position upon being elected to the House
of Representatives, in 1882, and having been elected Vice Presi-
dent of the bank, which position he now holds. He owns a fine
farm of one hundred and thirty acres, and is worth over $25,000,
accumulated by his own industry and caution. He belongs to
the following named orders, the charters of the last three of
which, bear his name : Masonic, Odd Fellowship, Degree of Re-
bekah, TJniformed Patriarch's, Ancient Order of United Work-
men, and Knights of Pythias. He has been an Odd Fellow for
twenty years. He is not a member of any church. In politics,
he is soundly and safely Republican. In person, he is tall, and
dark in complexion. He is pleasant in address, and dignified;,
yet agreeable in demeanor. He is a man of noted generosity,
of both purse and opinion, and has many warm personal friends.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 197

HON. JOHN M. PEARSON.

Mr. Pearson was born in Newberryport, Massachusetts, in
1832. His father was a ship carpenter at that time. Mr. Pear
son came to Illinois in 1849, locating at Alton. His education
was acquired in the common schools of the Bay State, and by
personal effort, and a wide range of general reading. He was
engaged in the manufacture of agricultural implements in Alton,
and, being familiar with the wants of the agricultural and manu-
facturing classes, may be looked upon as a very valuable acqui-
sition to the Lower House of the General Assembly. He is a
member of a Congregational Church, and a Free Mason of the
•degree of Knight Templar. In politics, he is a Republican,
having espoused the cause of that party, when it came into exist-
ence, and being faithful to its principles on all occasions, where
political action is required. He was a member of the Railroad
and Warehouse Commission from 1873 to Ia77, by appointment
•of the Governor, and, in 1878, was elected to the House of Rep-
resentatives, and reflected in 1880, and again in 1882, from the
Forty-first District. His residence is at Godfrey, Illinois. Mr.
Pearson has had considerable experience in Legislative affairs,
and is a strong man in the House. * He is of medium stature, and
well proportioned in physique ; genial, courteous and pleasant in
his conversation ; incisive and apt in debate, and noble and gen-
erous in the promptings of his heart. He is a man, generally
-admired and respected, and is worthy of the high office which
lie so ably fills.

198 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. JULIUS PEDERSON.

Norway has but one son in both branches of the Thirty-third
General Assembly of Illinois, and that one is the subject of this-
sketch. He was born in the above named country, in August,
1832. His father was a farmer. Mr. Pederson came to the
United States in 1855, first locating at Chicago, from which city
he removed to Racine, Wisconsin, where he resided for nine
years. He again came to Chicago at the end of that time, and
it is his present home. His education was acquired in the com-
mon schools of Norway ; but he has been such a close student
of American customs and the English language, that he is a very
proficient gentleman in both. By trade, Mr. Pederson is a car-
penter and joiner, and, until the last four and a half years, has
earned his food and raiment, and that of his family, by the sweat
of his brow. In religious belief, he a Lutheran. He is also a
member of the benevolent Order known as the Royal Arcanum.
He is a plain and unassuming, but incorrigible Republican in
politics, believing that his party was founded in brotherly love
and human justice, and feeling that the record of its opposite,
does not justify him in even thinking of a transfer of his politi-
cal affections. He was Supervisor of the Town of West Chicago
in 1877 and 1878, after which he became an Internal Revenue
Storekeeper in Chicago, and was elected to the House of Rep-
resentatives from the Ninth District, in 1882, polling a very large
vote. In person, he is tall, and dark in complexion. He is very
keen in perception, and is a shrewd and reliable Legislator. He
is plain, generous and accommodating in conduct and bearing,,
and has a strong, but pleasant foreign accent in speech.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 199

HON. ISAAC L. PRATT.

The flowing white beard and snowy locks of this old gentle-
man, give him quite a patriarchal appearance. He was born in
Easton, Bushton County, Massachusetts, August 4th, 1817. His
father, Seaver Pratt, was a farmer, who linked his destinies
with Miss Charity Lothrop, many years ago, and the marriage
was blessed with at least one child, who has since risen to the
station of honor in the council of State. Five generations of
Pratts have lived and died on the old Massachusetts homestead,
and Isaac, the sole survivor of the last, is still its proprietor. In
April, 1841, Mr. Pratt came to Roseville, Warren County, Illi-
nois, where he secured some valuable farming lands and began
in earnest, the life of a husbandman. He is now dealing in
cattle, and, at the same time, has a large interest in an excellent
banking establishment, of which, he is President. He has served
as Justice of the Peace in his county for fifteen years, and has
held other minor offices of honor and trust. He was elected
Representative in November, 1882, as a Democrat, his plurality
being over three thousand. Although in his sixty-sixth year,
Mr. Pratt is robust and strong in physique, and cheerful and
vigorous in conversation or debate. He is a teetotaler in regard
to intoxicating drinks. His presence is inviting, and, at the
same time, tempered with a quiet, dignified and polite bearing,
which will win him friends among all classes of people with
whom he may associate.

200 • BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. JAMES E. PURNELL.

He is a native Illinoisan, who was born in the City of Quincy,
April 26th, 1848. He has never changed his place of residence,
and was elected to the Thirty-third General Assembly from the
district in which he was born. His parents were James Purnell
and Martha, his wife, nee Brotherson. Hi? father was a Quincy
Merchant. His education was acquired in the public schools of
his city, and improved by untiring and continuous personal
effort, since he has attained the estate of manhood. The youth-
ful dreams of Mr. Purnell were of courts, and lawyers, and
judges, and statutes, and precedents, and juries. They were ac-
cepted as an omen of his future, and he espoused the law as his
profession. He has served two years as City Attorney of Quincy,
and was elected to the House of Representatives in 1882, by a
plurality of five thousand votes. He is a Democrat, born, bred,
educated and augmented with each additional year. His parents
were of English extraction, and the subject of this sketch is
somewhat English in his physical appearance. He is of medium
stature, and dark complexion — decidedly a handsome gentleman.
He is self-possessed and cool, ordinarily, but, upon the proposal
of any measures, which fails to fully meet his approbation, the
fires of his intellect are immediately aglow, and he defends his
position with all the earnestness, effectiveness and vehemence
peculiar to a man of his temperament. He is polite, affable and
dignified in demeanor, yet, a whole-souled, large-hearted man,
when anything occurs to excite compassion or sympathy. Gen-
erosity is one of the first impulses of his nature.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 201

HON. MICHAEL C. QUINN.

Mr. Quinn was born in Ireland, in the year 1840. His father
was a farmer, at that time, and "he was a farmer, too." The
family came across the ocean in 1845, locating in Massachusetts,
where Michael remained until 1864, when he removed to Illinois,
making his home in Peoria, where he now resides. His educa-
tion, was derived from the schools and academies of the Bay
State. He read law with Judge Morris, of Springfield, and W.
B. C. Pearsons, of Holyoke, Massachusetts, and was in due time
admitted to the Bar. He is an attorney of more than ordinary
accomplishments, being very much aided in his business by the
ready wit, which is a distinguishing characteristic of the people
of his native country. In religion, he is a Catholic, and holds
no membership in any of the so-called secret orders. He is a
Democrat in politics, and has never been anything else. He
has been City Attorney of Peoria, five years, and a member of
its Board of Education, ten years. He was a member of the
Lower House of the Twenty-eighth General Assembly, and was
again elected to the office in 1882. He seems to be a man of
great popularity, not only in his city and district, but, also, in
the honorable body, of which he is a member. He is a glib
talker and ready debater, and does not fear to speak his senti-
ments upon proper occasions. In person, he is smooth shaven,
and not above medium stature. He is rather corpulent, and is a
good conversationalist, an amiable, agreeable and generous-
hearted gentleman. He is a very shrewd man in debate and
political tactics.

202 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. DAVID RANKIN.

Born in Sullivan County, Indiana, in 1825, he had the usual
experiences of a country boy in ancient Hoosierdom. His father
was a wheel-wright and farmer, who believed that man was
intended to earn his bread by the sweat of his brow, and little
David had his share of the ups and downs incident to his station
in life. In 1836 the family came to Warren, now Henderson,
County, Illinois, where the subject of this sketch became a thrifty
and respected farmer, on his own account. He had received a
fair common school education in Indiana, and improved his mind
by close observation and general reading, as opportunity was
offered. He is a shrewd financier, and has accumulated money,
until he is one of the wealthiest farmers in the State. He owns
30,000 acres of land; 5,000 acres in Illinois, and 25,000 in Iowa
and Missouri. He is a member of the United Presbyterian
Church, but holds no affiliation with any secret order. When
the Whig party ceased to be, Mr. Rankin became a Republican,
and he has voted with that party ever since. He was a member
of the Lower House in the Twenty-eighth and Twenty-ninth
General Assemblies, and was chosen as Representative from the
Twenty-fourth District in 1882. He has large monied interests,
owning three large banks, in addition to his landed estates. He
is above the average in stature, slender in form and wears a full
beard. He never suffers any measure to go to vote, without first
familiarizing himself with its provisions. He always votes from
conviction, and is firm and undemonstrative in his demeanor.
Though cautious and somewhat reserved, he is not morose, and
is as affable to the humblest page or most importunate inter-
viewer, as to his fellow Legislators.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 203

HON. ROBERT B. RAY.

Robert Brown Ray, one of the Representatives from Vermilion
County, was born in Dearborn County, Indiana, February 18th,
1830. His father was a farmer and native of Kentucky, of Irish
descent. Mr. Ray's grandfather on his father's side, died at the
advanced age of one hundred and four years. The mother of our
subject, is a relative of Hon. Richard M. Johnson, once Vice
President of the United States. Her maiden name was Mildred
Johnson Watts. Robert's father died, when the former was but
eight years old, when his mother came to Vermilion County,
Illinois, settling on a small farm, where he was raised, acquiring
some of the most valuable experiences of his life. He attended
winter schools in log school houses, until he had passed his ma-
jority, and subsequently studied in an academy at Danville, for
two years. He then taught several terms of school, meanwhile
reading medicine with Dr. James H. Farris, of Danville, after
which he was graduated from the Rush Medical College, of
Chicago. He received his diploma in 1860, locating in Macon
County, Missouri, where he remained practicing his profession
until the beginning of the War, when he left that State and
settled at Fairmount, fourteen miles west of Danville, where he
now resides. In 1859, Dr. Ray was married to Miss Fannie
Beecher, of Adair County, Missouri. He has a very bright
record as a physician and surgeon, his practice being very exten-
sive. His professional standing in his county is very high. He
is a member of the County Medical Association, having been its
President in 1880. With the exception of that of Village
Trustee and School Director, the Doctor held no public office
until elected to the House of Representatives in 1882. He is a
member of the Committee to visit the State Charitable Institu-
tions, also those on Highways, Bridges, Mines and Mining, and
Warehouses. He is an influential and active Republican, being
thoroughly devoted to the cause of his party. He is a member
and Trustee of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Dr. and Mrs.
Ray have three children, the eldest, Beecher B., being a
scientific and classical graduate of an Institution at Valparaiso,
Indiana, and Agnes and Robert being now engaged in pursuing
their studies at home.

204 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. FRANCIS M. RICHARDSON.

This gentleman first lightened the hearts of his parents and
raised his voice in behalf of the fettered and oppressed, at Fees-
bury, Brown County, Ohio, July 24th, 1831. His father was a
farmer; but, being a skillful veterinary surgeon, the calls of his
neighbors upon his time were so frequent that he found little
time to cultivate the soil. His father was a Corporal in the English
Army, during the War of 1812. In 1869 the subject of this article
came to Illinois, locating at Sumner, Lawrence County. He did
not remain in Sumner very long, leaving there to establish himself
in Neoga, which he has since made his permanent home. He ob-
tained his education in the common schools of Ohio, and the Eclec-
tic Medical Institute, of Cincinnati, of which he is a graduate.
Previous to his Eclectic course, he attended an Alapathic school
for a single term. He is engaged in practicing medicine at his
home. He belongs to no religious denomination, but is a mem-
ber of each of the following named secret societies: Odd Fellows,
Royal Arch Masonry, Knights of Honor and Knights and Ladies
of Honor. He volunteered as a private in the One Hundred and
Eighty-fourth Ohio, serving on detached duty most of the time,
in the Commissary Department. He was also a prescribing phy-
sician at sick-call, and served as Hospital Steward. He was also
a Lieutenant in the Home Guard, a drill corps for preparing men
for the service. He was what is termed a War Democrat, voted
for Douglas, and has never forsaken the old party. He was
elected to the House of Representatives in 1880, and reflected
in 1882, from the Thirty-second District. In person, he is tall
and dark. He is cool, sedate and deliberate in debate, and col-
lected amidst exciting surroundings, and a polite and entertain-
ing conversationalist.

BIOGBAPHIAL SKETCHES. 205

HON. JOHN B. RICKS.

Mr. Ricks was born near Cadiz, Trigg County, Kentucky, No-
vember 14th, 1833. His father was a farmer and stock-raiser,
and Mr. Ricks is a good judge of horses and cattle to-day, as the
result of his observations during his early years of existence.
In 1836, the family came to Illinois, locating in what was then
Montgomery County, now Christian. The father was a member
of the Illinois House of Representatives in 1845, and was in-
strumental in having enough of Montgomery, Shelby and San-
gamon Counties cut off to form Christian County. He died near
Springfield, and rests in the family burial ground on Bear Creek.
After a residence of thirty years in this State, Mr. Ricks re-
moved to Kentucky ; but he did not remain there very long,
returning to this State, and locating at Morrison ville. His edu-
cation was partially obtained in a veritable log school-house,
wjiiich he avers was not much higher than his head ; but he after-
ward attended other schools and McKendree College. The
family then resided twenty-one miles from a physician, post-
office, or voting place. He jocosely remarked that he would
gladly have run away, had there been any place to go without
danger of starving or freezing before getting there. He then
herded cattle in the summer-time, and occasionally secured a copy
of the Sangamon Journal, and some Chicago paper, which he read
with only the avidity of which a starving mind in an active
body, is capable. Mr. Ricks is a Mason, of the degree of Knight
Templar, and an Odd Fellow. During the war, he raised a
company of soldiers, and was commissioned Captain ; but he
could not get into the service, as he desired. He is a Democrat^
born and bred, and has held so many important offices that to
enumerate them would render this sketch far too statistical to
be interesting. He was a member of the House of Representa-
tives in 1867, and was on all of the committees to consider plans
and specifications for what is now the great, unfinished, yet mag-
nificent Capitol of Illinois. He deals extensively in short-horn
cattle, of which he is a celebrated shipper. In person, Mr. Ricks
is above medium height, compactly built, and well knit. He is.
a man of apparently unlimited physical strength, and mental
vigor. His hair is very black. He is noble and generous in
spirit, and convincing and practical in debate.

206 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. CHARLES L. ROANE.

Mr. Roane was born in Loudoun County, Virginia, October 3d,
1820. His father was a farmer at that time. In 1854, the subject
of this sketch came to Illinois, making his home at Sullivan, Moul-
trie County, where he now resides, and is engaged in merchan-
dising. His education was acquired in the common schools and
Flint Hill Academy, in his native State. He has quietly pursued
his course as a dry goods merchant, for twenty-one years, and by
close attention and cautious conduct, has amassed a competency.
In addition to his stock in trade, he owns about ten thousand
dollars worth of city real estate, and recently disposed of a farm
at good figures. Mr. Roane is a Presbyterian in religious faith,
and has been a member of the Independent Order of Odd
Fellows for the last thirty years. He is probably the oldest Odd
Fellow in either branch of the General Assembly, and is one
among the oldest in the State. In politics, he is a sound Repub-
lican, who was one of the first members of that political party.
He adheres to its principles with unwavering fidelity, but is not
a politician in any sense of the word, except that of personal
preference in political belief. He was County Clerk of his county
from 1857 to 1861, and was much surprised, when he received
the nomination for Representative in 1882. His selection was
undoubtedly partly due to the fact that he was not a chronic
office-seeker, and that he richly deserved the honor at the hands
of his constituents, in the Thirty-third District. In personal ap-
pearance, he is large in stature and circumference. He is genial
and pleasant in association, and kind, considerate and generous
in disposition. He is one of the wise men of the House, upon
whom the people rely for protection against fraud and experi-
mental Legislation.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 207

HON. CALVIN M. ROGERS.

The subject of this sketch was born on a farm in Monroe
County, Missouri, February 15th, 1835, and is, therefore, forty-
eight years of age. His father, Aleri, was one of the pioneers of
his native State, and Mr. Rogers' earlier history is but a repeti-
tion of the experience of the innumerable army of farmers' boys,
which has fought its way to fortune and fame, by its own noble
efforts and unflinching determination. His mother, whose
maiden name was Mary Davidson, was one of those noble, and
warm hearted women, who train their sons in the way they
should go, with full confidence that, when older, they will not
depart from it. In 1836, the family removed from Missouri, to
Warren County, Illinois, where their children were reared upon
free soil, and amid surroundings well calculated to convert the
youth to the faith of those, who were Loyal Democrats. Mr.
Rogers received a good common school education and afterward
attended Knox College, at Galesburg, Illinois, for two terms.
He turned his attention to farming, upon attaining his majority,
and is still engaged in that most necessary and honored avoca-
tion. He became a Republican, with the commencement of his
political career, and has never abandoned his party, which, in
recognition of his services, elevated him to a place in the Board
of Supervisors of his County, and retained him in that position
for six consecutive years, as the representative of Hale Town-
ship. In 1882, he was chosen as one of the Representatives
of the Twenty-seventh District of the Lower House of the
General Assembly of the State, a position, which he is filling
with honor to himself and satisfaction to his constituency. He
possesses a power of penetration, which enables him to form
opinions quickly and correctly. He is shrewd and enthusiastic
in conversation, and always endeavors to turn things to- good
account. In person, he is tall and compactly built; wears a full
beard, and is rather more dark than light in complexion. He is
a man whose very presence inspires confidence — one whom all
regard as honorable and honest. He is very obliging and gen-
erous in disposition.

208 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. JESSE J. ROOK.

Mr. Rook was born in Chicago, January 2d, 1850, his father
at that time being a tanner. Mr. Rook has always resided in
Chicago, although he has traveled extensively, for the purpose
of increasing his fund of knowledge, by greater and more ex-
tended opportunities for observation. His literary education was
obtained in the public schools of Chicago, where he won a
scholarship in the Bryant & Stratton Business College, by his
good record in a competitive examination at the close of his
course. He made a good use of it, and, as a result, has a very
fine practical, business education. After leaving the latter in-
stitution, he accepted a position in the Chicago Postoftice, in
1871. That was his first public position. He is a member of
the Roman Catholic Church ; but does not affiliate with any of
the secret orders. He is a Republican in politics, having never
been anything else, and not feeling that there is any just neces-
sity for breaking his political faith or changing his relations to
the party. He was elected to the House of Representatiyes in
1882, by a majority of two thousand two hundred votes over both
of his Democratic competitors, in a Democratic District — the
Eleventh, of Cook County. Mr. Rook is a young man of excel-
lent talents, and bids fair to avoid the indiscretions, which are
often perpetrated by men of his age, in public positions, steer
clear of the rocks of over-confidence, and attain an enviable
position on the scroll of fame. He is rather below the average
stature and is dark in complexion. He is neat and tidy in dress,
and very socialj generous and kind in his intercourse with his
constituents. He is a man of rare independence and deter-
mination.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 209

HON. JAMES M. ROUNTREE.

This gentleman was born in Washington County, Illinois, in
the year 1833. His parents were Greenville and Lydia Young
Rountree. His father was a farmer, and miller, in Washington
County, where he yet resides, and is one of the i epresentative
•citizens of that locality. Mr. Rountree is a resident of Nash-
ville, and represents the Forty-second District in the Lower
House. His education was obtained from the family library, at
home. When yet a boy, Mr. Rountree began learning the
blacksmith's trade. After graduating as a "smithy," he learned
the carpenter's trade, and then began the study of law in his own
private library, which he had been collecting, and which he has
kept adding to, until to-day it is the best law library in Wash-
ington County. Mr. Rountree was Master in Chancery from
1866 to 1870, and held the office of State's Attorney for his
County, from 1876 to 1880, and in 1882 was elected to his present
office, defeating his opponent on the Republican ticket, Mr.
Defrcese, by 1930 votes, and this, too, in a Republican District.
Mr. Rountree has always been a Democrat, but he refused to
vote for Greeley when he ran for the office of President. Mr.
Rountree is a member of the Order of Odd Fellows. He owns
four hundred acres of land in this State, and is comfortably fixed
in life. In appearance, Mr. Rountree is rather portly, and is a
pleasant, sociable gentleman and shrewd Legislator.

210 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES,

HON. ELBERT ROWLAND.

Mr. Rowland was born in New York City, April 28th, 1832.
His father was a merchant tailor, who removed to Illinois in
1840, locating at Olney, Richland County. He obtained his
literary education in the common schools of Illinois, but, being^
ambitious to follow in the footsteps of JEsculapius, he entered
the New York Medical College, where he was graduated in the
Department of Chemistry, in 1858, and in the Medical Depart-
ment, one year later. He began the practice of his profession in
New York City, where he remained until 1861, when he entered
the Army as Assistant Surgeon, of the Twenty-seventh Regiment
of New York Volunteers. He retained his place in the service
of the United States, until 1863, when he returned to Olney,.
where he has resided and enjoyed a lucrative business ever since.
He is now Surgeon of Post No. 92, Grand Army of the Republic,,
at his home. He is not a member of any church, but is a Royal
Arch Degree Mason, and a Comrade in the Grand Army of the
Republic, as above stated. He is a confirmed Democrat, and,
although prominently identified with the local interests of his
party, has hitherto refused all nominations, with the exception of
that upon which he became a candidate for Representative in
the Thirty-third General Assembly. In the convention, which
placed him in nomination, he received the entire vote upon the
first ballot. This is one of the remarkable things of political
history. There are few political conventions, which are unani-
mous in sentiment. In person, Mr. Rowland is of average stat-
ure, and dark complexion. He wears a magnificent black beard
of great length. He is deliberate, yet fluent in conversation, and
genial and kind in disposition. He stands high in his profession
and the estimation of his associates, political and otherwise. He
is very precise and clear in delivery, and a forcible debater in
most respects. He has been Chairman of the Local Democratic
Central Committee, for seventeen years ; is also a member of the
Board of Censors of the College of Physicians and Surgeons, at
Evansville, Indiana, and was one of the Committee to examine
candidates for the West Point Cadetship, in his district, in 1880.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 211

HON. JAMES M. SCURLOCK.

Mr. Scurlock first looked upon the faces of men and women, in
Williamson County, Illinois, September 24th, 1844. His father
was a farmer, and James probably owes much of his success in
life to the fact that the obstacles which lay in the way of suc-
cessful and profitable agriculture in that day, were very numerous,
and could be overcome only by the greatest and most perseverent
effort. He undoubtedly had his share of hard experiences, which,
if we had space to relate them, would cause the farmer boys of
this day of machinery and convenient markets, to open their eyes
in amazement, that people then lived at all. His education was
solely derived from the public schools of the country, and indi-
vidual effort. In 1863, he removed to Carbondale, Jackson
County, where he how resdes. He is, by occupation, a dealer in
produce and agricultural implements. He belongs to no church;
but is a Free Mason of the degree of Knight Templar. He has
always been a Republican in politics, and has served two years
as Alderman, and eight years, as Treasurer of the city of Carbon-
dale. He was elected to the House of Representatives in 1 882,
polling a very large vote. In person, he is large and well pro-
portioned, dark in complexion, and a very handsome man in
appearance. He is polite and gentlemanly in his intercourse
with the people, and is a fluent conversationalist, influential de-
bater and generous gentleman, who does honor to the office which
he holds.

212 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. AUSTIN O. SEXTON.

Mr. Sexton was born in Chicago, in the year 1852, his father
being at that time a contractor and builder. His education was
acquired in the Chicago public schools, he being a graduate of
the High School, of the class of 1872. After two years of arduous
study in the office of a practicing attorney, Mr. Sexton was ad-
mitted to the Bar in 1876, on the fourth day of July. He does
not belong to any church; but is a member of the Ancient Order
of United Workmen and Independent Order of Forresters. In
politics he is unquestionably Democratic to the very core, and,
being so from conviction, his opponents will find it a difficult
matter to convert him to their faith, although they fully realize
that he is a valuable acquisition to any party. He was first
elected to the House of Representatives in 1876, and was re-
elected in 1878, 1880 and 1882 by increased majorities. He is a
popular man, not alone in his District, but, also, in the honorable
body of which he is a member, having received the full vote of
his party for Speaker at the present session, and being defeated,
only because his party was in a hopeless minority. In personal
appearance, he is tall, well proportioned and decidedly good
looking. He has a splendid voice, and is never afraid or ashamed
to let it be heard upon proper occasions. He is well informed,
affable and generous in disposition, and dignified, yet not over-
bearing in demeanor. He is one of tnc Democratic leaders in
the House, and is undoubtedly a good man in his proper sphere.

BlOGBAPHICAL SKETCHES. 213

HON. JOHN C. SEYSTER.

This gentleman was born at Oregon, Ogle County, Illinois,
May 12th, 1854. He has never resided outside of the State in
which he was born, and received an academic education at Rock
River Seminary, located at Mt. Morris. He entered the Union
School of Law, at Chicago, in the fall of 1876, remaining one
term, when he completed his course of study in the office of the
Honorable William Barge, of Dixon. His preceptor is regarded
as one of the leading members of the Bar, of Northern Illinois.
He was examined in the Appellate Court and admitted to the
Bar in 1878, since which time he has been engaged in practicing
his profession at Oregon, his native city. He is a promising
young lawyer, and has already secured a place in the hearts of
his neighbors and clients, which many far older lawyers might
justly regard with envy. He is not a member of any church, nor
does he affiliate with more than one secret society. He is an
enthusiastic member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows,
and is as proud of the principles of that fraternity as his lodge
is well satisfied with his practice of them. He is a Democrat,
and has been nothing else since attaining his majority. He was
elected to represent his district in the Lower House of the Thirty-
third General Assembly, in 1882, running far ahead of his ticket.
In personal appearance, Mr. Seyster is below the medium height;
wears no beard; has blue eyes, and is well proportioned. He
dresses very neatly and tastefully, and is a smooth but incisive
talker. He is positive in opinion, and possesses excellent judg-
ment and a calm temper. He is an unusually successful advocate
in jury cases.

214 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. REDMOND SHERIDAN.

We now have the pleasure of presenting to our readers the
"legislative baby." Mr. Sheridan, though youthful in appear-
ance, as well as in fact, is neither a babe in stature or intellect.
The above epithet expresses the idea that he is the most youthful
member of the Thirty-third General Assembly. He was born
in Chicago, December 12th, 1859. His parents were Redmond
and Agnes Sheridan, who claim relationship with the poet of the
same name. Mr. Sheridan's father was a prominent dealer in
boots and shoes, at the time of his child's birth, and is still en-
gaged in the same trade. He provided facilities for a good
education, and his boy became a graduate of Dyrenfurth Col-
lege, Chicago. At the time of his election to the Legislature,
he was engaged as a clerk in the wholesale liquor house of H.
H. Schuf eldt & Co. He has read law for the purpose of increas-
ing the range of his education, and is a shrewd reasoner and
sensible talker. He is a member of Company "K," Second Regi-
ment Illinois National Guards, at present. He has once offered
his resignation, but the boys desire so greatly to keep him in
the ranks, that they refuse to accept it. Mr. Sheridan is a mem-
ber of the Catholic Church, and also belongs to the Independent
Order of Forresters. He was elected on the Democratic ticket,
running one thousand two hundred votes ahead of his associate
Democratic majority candidate. He represents the Fourth Dis-
trict of Cook County, and resides in Chicago. In person, Mr.
Sheridan is smooth-faced, slender and boyish ; but, notwith-
standing his youthful appearance, he is acute in observation, and
fearless in discussion. He will rise, with the first important oc-
casion, into public notice, for he realizes that he was sent to the
House of Representatives to advocate the interests of his con-
stituents, and he is sure to endeavor to fully perform his mission.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 215

HON. LOUIS CHARLES STARKEL.

This gentleman was born at Prange, Bohemic Austria, Septem-
ber 1st, 1839. His father, true to the instincts of the race of
which he was a representative, was a skilled architect. The
family came to the United States in 1850, locating in Ohio,
whence the subject of this sketch emigrated to Carlisle, Illinois,
in 1859, where he began practicing his profession as a physician
and surgeon. His education was acquired in the common schools
of Ohio, and professional knowledge added to it by a course of
study in the Cincinnati Medical College. Mr. Starkel is now
•engaged in the practice of medicine, however, having tempo-
rarily, at least, retired. He is a Free Mason of the Thirty-second
Degree, and a Knight Templar. He is now the Grand Warden
•of a Grand Commandery of that order. He is, and has always
been, a staunch boat on the sea of government, guided by the
pilot which he deems safest — Democracy. The party has hon-
ored him with the office of County Clerk, which he has held since
1873, until he was elected to the House of Representatives from
the Forty-Seventh, or Belleville District, in 1882. Mr. Starkel
is a quite prominent factor, not only in the affairs of the General
Assembly, but in the Democratic councils of the commonwealth,
and, judging from the success of his townsman at the last elec-
tion, may yet leave the hungry opposition to mourn over another
success in the Sucker State. In person, Mr. Starkel is tall and
robust — a nicely proportioned man, in fact — ambitious, yet cool
and collected in thought, in times of excitement. He is as gen-
erous and kind as one could wish, and hardly ever jokes. He
was the Democratic nominee for State Auditor in 1880, but was
•defeated.

216 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. GEORGE M. STEVENS.

Mr. Stevens was born near Waterloo, Shefford County, Canada
East, April 4th, 1846. His father was a seaman in early life,
but, at the time of George's birth, was engaged in farming. In
1865, Mr. Stevens removed to Vermont, but did not remain
there long, coming to Springfield, Illinois, in 1867, and locating
at Nokomis, Montgomery County, in 1872. His education was
acquired in the common schools of Canada, the Springfield High
School and the Ann Arbor, Michigan, Law School, where he was-
graduated in 1872, and since that date, he has been practicing
his profession at his Montgomery County home. He has the
reputation of being a very shrewd and successful lawyer. He
does not commune with any of- the religious denominations, but
is a Royal Arch Mason. He is a Democrat, politically, believing
that the Constitutional methods and conservative theories of that
party are best calculated to develope and perpetuate Republican
institutions. He has occupied the position of City Attorney of
Nokomis since 1876, until his election to the House of Represen-
tatives in 1882, from the Fortieth District, by a majority of two-
thousand votes. In person, Mr. Stevens is slightly above
medium stature; wears a full beard, and is kind, affable and
polite to all with whom he comes in contact. He is a careful
debater and a generous and capable man, who is no more
honored by his election than is the office, which he fills. Mr.
Stevens is a self-made man, having left his father's home at the
age of seventeen, since which time he has been thrown entirely
upon his own resources, and, what he is now, is entirely the result
of his own exertions.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 217

HON. JOHN D. STEVENS.

Mr. Stevens was born at Carrollton, Greene County, Illinois,
February 8th, 1826 His father was then engaged in the busi-
ness of a hatter and furrier, driving a flourishing trade with the
Indians at Louisiana, Missouri, who infested that part of the
State in great numbers, in that early day. In 1828, his parents
emigrated to Hazel Green, Wisconsin ; but, in the fall of the
same year, returned to Illinois, sailing down the river in an old-
fashioned keel-boat. In 1829, the family engaged in the fur
trade, in Louisiana, Pike County, Missouri ; but, in 1833, settled
in Hancock County, Illinois, where Mr. Stevens now resides.
The old gentleman can relate many entertaining stories of early
Illinois history, and delights in dwelling upon the scenes of dan-
ger and tragic, or amusing incidents of the olden time. The
education of Mr. Stevens was acquired in the country schools of
Hancock County. He is the proprietor of the Stevens House, a
large hotel at Carthage, in his county ; but does not conduct it
himself, although he has acted as "mine host" during six years of
his eventful life. He has spent the greater portion of his life in
farming and mining. He is a Democrat, and has served as
Sheriff of his county, two terms. In 1882, he was elected to the
House of Representatives, running over five thousand votes
ahead of his ticket. He is one of those substantial men, who
are too honest to indulge in trickery, and can be trusted for the
integrity of motives, which is often required to bridge over a
political crisis. , He is one of those kind and considerate old
gentlemen, whom everybody loves ; is large and portly in phys-
ique, and as gentle and sympathetic as a woman in his disposi-
tion. He is generally respected and beloved for his noble
qualities of heart and mind.

218 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. THEODORE STIMMING.

He is a German by birth. He was born near Berlin, Prussia,
April 2d, 1830. His father followed the avocation of a hatter
and furrier, for a livelihood. Mr. Stimming came to the United
States in 1849, and located at Cincinnati. He moved to Iowa in
1854, and located in Chicago in 1872. Ife was educated in the
Gymnasium, in Berlin, and was graduated for the purpose of
serving in the Army, one year, the laws in relation to military
service being less rigorous at that time than now. After coming
West, he worked upon the Lake Shore and Southern Railway,
purchasing an interest in a riding school in Cincinnati, a short
time afterward. He afterward kept a hotel, and, soon after that
became the representative of Kohler & Frohling, of San Fran-
cisco, traveling and selling to wholesale dealers, in car-load lots.
He was Superintendent of the North Division Postoffice, of Chi-
cago, when elected to the House of Representatives in 1882. He
was a Volunteer in the First Iowa Regiment, in April, 1861, and
participated in the battle at Wilson Creek, Missouri. He re-
enlisted in the Thirty-first Iowa, on the first three hundred thou-
sand call, and was a participant in the battle at Arkansas Post,
where he was promoted from the First Lieutenancy to a Major-
ship, for meritorious services on the battle-field. He was at
Vicksburg, Lookout Mountain and Atlanta, where the gallant
.YlePherson fell. He was made a Lieutenant Colonel before
Atlanta, marched with Sherman to the sea, and was mustered
out in August, 1865. He is not a church member, but is an Odd
Fellow, member of the Encampment and Uniform Degree, and
Knight of Honor. He is a staunch Republican, and was elected
from the Sixth Chicago District. He is very genial and kind in
disposition, good natured in debate, and has a smile for every-
body. In speech, he is pleasant and agreeable, and has a slight
German accent, which lends to his conversation a somewhat re-
markable charm.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 219

HON. GEORGE G. STRUCKMAN.

This gentleman first gazed upon the beauties of nature, in the
northern part of Germany, in 1835. His father was overseer in a
coal-mine. In 1850, his parents, with their family, emigrated to
the United States, locating in the town of Hanover, in Cook
County, Illinois. He was educated in the district school of his
village, and afterward enjoyed some advantages in good, private
schools in the City of Chicago. In September of 1861, Mr.
Struckman enlisted in Company " H," of the Fourth Regiment of
Missouri Cavalry and was chosen First Sergeant. He served
until promoted after the Battle of Pea Ridge, to Second Lieuten-
ant, November 1, 1864, when he was mustered out of the army
in the latter capacity. Mr. Struckman is one of the proud sons
of toil, of the grandest agricultural State in the Union, owning a
farm of one hundred and sixty acres near Hanover, in Cook
County, his post-office address, however, being Elgin, Kane
County. He is one of those German sons of Industry, who came
to the land of the free, poor, and have amassed fortunes. In
politics, he is a Republican, having supported that ticket with his
first ballot as well as the last. He has been a Justice of the
Peace for twelve years, Assessor for ten years and served one
term as Township Supervisor. He is not a church member; but
is a Free Mason. He is physically large and portly; sandy in
complexion; wears a full beard and is a shrewd politician, and
jolly conversationalist, and is genial and affable in his inter-
course with the people, and his associates in the House of Repre-
sentatives.

220 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES

HON. HENRY STUDER.

Mr. Studer was born to Peter and Elizabeth Studer, the maiden
name of the latter being Ruby, in Switzerland, March 1st, 1823.
His father was a farmer, and Henry's early days were fraught
with the valuable experiences of farm-life, to be derived from
labor on Swiss lands. Mr. Studer came to the United States in
1850, locating at Olney, Richland County, Illinois, where he now
resides. His education in youth was such as the common schools
of his native country afforded ; but he has learned to speak the
English language very fluently, and close observation has enabled
him to master some of the most difficult business problems. For
some years after locating in Olney, Mr. Studer followed the
business of a wholesale grocer, but having accumulated a neat
little fortune, he has now rt tired from that business. He has
held many minor "offices of honor and trust in the county and
city governments, and was a Deputy in the office of the Provost
Marshal, after the War. He became a member of Fremont's
Body Guard, in 1862. He is a member of the German Reformed
Church, and a Free Mason of the degree of Knight Templar.
He became a Republican in 1856, during the campaign of John
C. Fremont, and has adhered to the tenets of that party ever
since. He was elected by a larger vote than any of his col-
leagues, to a place in the House of Representatives of the Thirty-
third General Assembly, and, is also a director of the Olney
National Bank, which has a capital of $60,000. In person, Mr.
Studer is large, portly and stamped with the physical character-
istics of his fatherland. He is fair in complexion; polite, talk-
ative and agreeable, and has a slight foreign accent in speech,
which gives a charming interest to his conversation. He is a
careful man, and does, not fear the opposition, or anybody else.
He takes a great interest in all financial affairs pertaining to the
State Government.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 221

HON. DAVID SULLIVAN.

He was born in Ireland, April 3d, 1856, and came to this coun-
try with his parents, when quite young. His family had lived
in this country several years prior to his birth, his father being
an American Citizen at that time, although residing in his native
country. Upon his second arrival in this country, the father of
Mr. Sullivan went, with his family, to the town of Yonkers, New
York, where he resided for a few years, eventually removing to
Marquette County, Michigan, where he and his wife now reside.
Having acquired a limited knowledge of the "art preservative,"
he left home at the early age of fifteen years, and went to Chi-
cago, where he immediately secured employment as a compositor
on the Chicago Times. He afterward read law in the office of
Olney & Crocker, but completed his course of study under the
tutorship of Hon. T. A. Moran, one of the Circuit Judges of
Cook County. His education was acquired in the common
schools of his various places of residence, and the composing
room. In religion, he is a Catholic ; in politics, an uncomprom-
ising Democrat He was a Representative in the Thirty-second
General Assembly, having been elected from the First Chicago
District, and was reflected from the same district as a minority
candidate in 1882. In person, he is very tall and well propor-
tioned, has dark hair and a light moustache. He is frank and
positive in character, and cannot endure any sugar-coating or
soft-soaping. He is incisive in speech, and says precisely what
he thinks, irrespective of results.

222 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. MICHAEL A. SULLIVAN.

This gentleman was born in St. Louis, October 19, 1858, and
is now twenty-four years old. His parents reside in St. Clair
County, at present. His father was a contractor and grocer, who
frequently figured in politics as a logical and forcible stump-
orator. He was the author of the first side-walk ordinance ever
adopted by the government of East St. Louis, then a small town.
The subject of this sketch received an academic education, grad-
uating from the St. Clair County High School, with high honors,,
in 1876. He immediately re-entered the same school in the
capacity of an instructor, and remained until last fall, when the
voice of his constituents invited him to the Legislative halls of
his State. He was elected as a Democrat, running ahead of hia
ticket. He is a pronounced friend of the laboring classes, and
though young, his voice will be heard in their defense upon all
proper occasions. He is remarkable for his energy, which was
no less a prominent characteristic of the boy at play, than the
young man, poring over his books in the school room. He
always stood high in his classes, and was foremost in the sports
incident to the career of a school boy. He is a talented young
man, whose career in State affairs bas but commenced ; but, if
his people should see fit to continue him in office, we have no
doubt that he will soon occupy a prominent place among our law-
makers. His energetic and studious habits will win him friends
and fame, if pursued with the same perseverence in the future
as in the past. His constituents must have recognized rare merit
in him, to elect him to such a responsible position at this early
period of his life. He is engaged in reading law and will com-
plete his course in June, 1883.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 22S

HON. EDWARD B. SUMNER.

This rising young statesman was born in Winnebago County,.
Illinois, November 14th, 1850, and is, therefore, but thirty-two
years of age. His parents were Ephriam Sumner and Betsy, his
wife, nee Blake, who resided upon a farm, and the early training
of their son, who is now snch a prominent figure in local poli-
tics, was of that simple and substantial type, which has produced
most of the ablest professional men of our country. Mr. Sum-
ner is now a resident of Rockford, in the county of his birth.
He is a graduate of the Rockford High School, of the class of
1866, of the University, of Michigan, class of 1871, in the liter-
ary department, and of the law department of the same school,
of the class of 1873. Mr. Sumner chose the law as his profes-
sion, and has enjoyed a profitable and extensive practice in Rock-
ford, his home. Although quite young, and a new acquisition to
the Bar, he was made City Attorney of Rockford, in 1878. He
was elected to the Thirty-second General Assembly as a majority
candidate, and re-elected to the Thirty-third Assembly in the
same manner. He is a sound Republican in politics, and is one
of the most faithful members of the House. His reputation for
fidelity to his official trusts is as great in the body, of which he
is a member, as among his constituents. He is forcible and
eloquent in speech, firm in disposition, and affable and courteous
in his intercourse with the people. In person, he is a little
above the medium height, manly and dignified in bearing, and
of light complexion. It is a significant fact, that he has held
many elective offices in his county, and has never yet occupied
the rather unpleasant position of a defeated candidate. He is
Chairman of the Committee on Judicial Department, at the
present session, and was a member of the Judiciary Committee
at the session of 1880.

224 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. '

HON. PETER A. SUNDELIUS.

Mr. Sundelius was born in Sweden, and is a graduate of the
Royal College at Gotten Durg, having pursued a classical course
of study of no less than ten years duration. He has been a tutor
in college, editor of a Swedish newspaper, and is now a clerk in
the Recorder's office in Chicago, being granted a leave of absence
to attend to his duties as one of the law-makers of his State. Mr.
Sundelius was a member of the Tenth Regiment of Connecticut
Volunteers, during the Rebellion, and was severely wounded at
Petersburg, Virginia, April 2d, 1865. He belongs to no church^
but is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, Post No.
28, in Chicago. He is a very determined and conscientious
Republican in politics, and was elected to the House of Repre-
sentatives of the Thirty-third General Assembly, by a plurality
of 1,897^ votes, from the Thirteenth District. Mr. Sundelius
is, perhaps, one of the best educated men in either branch of the
Legislature. His knowledge of the classics is probably un-
equalled in any branch of the State government, and he is an
able writer and speaker, and an excellent penman. He is a very
retiring gentleman in disposition, and seemed very much averse
to going before the public in the form of a hero, when ap-
proached for information, upon which to base a sketch of his
life. In person he is tall and slender, and bears the stamp of
excessive mental labor. He is polite and dignified in manner,
and shrewd and powerful in argument.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 225

HON. JOHN S. SYMONDS.

This gentleman is of average stature, inclined to portliness,
and genial and social in disposition. His hair is quite gray, and
he is plain and unassuming, in both dress and speech. He was
born in Cayuga County, New York, January 18th, 1833. His
father was a farmer. April 23d, 1857, he came to Xenia, Clay
County, Illinois, and having acquired a good common-school edu-
cation in his native State, at once became a farmer and dealer in
grain. He has been remarkably successful in business, and has
amassed a very handsome fortune. His landed estates aggregate
about a thousand acres, and he has hay-presses, warehouses, etc.,
of very great value. He is yet engaged in buying and shipping
hay and grain, and enjoys the best possible reputation for hon-
esty, business sagacity and strict integrity. Although so wealthy,
he is not parsimonious, the generous impulses of his nature con-
trolling him in his intercourse with the world. He is a Baptist
in religious belief, and is a Free Mason in good standing. Po-
litically, he is a Democrat, although he was a Republican during
the War. He became a Democrat by force of the excesses and
extravagancies of the administrations succeeding the Rebellion,
and does not feel that the party has ever sufficiently recovered
from those conditions to justify him in supporting it. He is an
acute reasoner, and an enemy to all sorts of reckless expendi-
ture in governmental affairs, State or National. He has held
various local offices, and was chosen to represent his district in
the Lower House of the Legislature, in 1882,- by a very hand-
some plurality.

226 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. DANIEL TAYLOR.

Mr. Taylor was born in Argyle, New York, in July, 1832'. In
1855, he came to Illinois, locating in the City of Kankakeer
where he has since resided. His education was obtained in the
common schools of his native State, and, although he is too-
modest to say so, there is no doubt in the mind of the writer, that
he has been a very close observer and careful reader, throughout
his life. He is not a member of any church organization, but is
a Free Mason. By occupation, he is a dealer in stone, and mam-
ufacturer of tile, brick and lime, although himself a " brick," to
employ slang phraseology, but not a very "hard bat." He says-
he would prefer to have nothing said concerning his business,,
but the historian must be faithful to his subject, even if the latter
is subjected to strange importunings and covered with Legislative
anathema. Seriously, however, Mr. Taylor is one of those
pointed and witty gentlemen, who are always on good terms
with the world, enjoy life, and are the center of a large circle of
admiring friends. He is a Democrat in politics ; has held
numerous local offices of honor and trust ; was a member of the
Thirtieth General Assembly, representing the minority party
in the Sixteenth District, and was reflected in 1882. He is not
above average in stature, light in complexion, and rather reticent
upon the subject of self, but a very excellent speaker upon ordi-
nary topics, or proposed Legislative measures. He is polite,
affable and generous in his intercourse with the public..

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 227

HON. JAMES A. TAYLOR.

Mr. Taylor was born in Chicago in 1858, and is now twenty-
five years of age. His father was a metropolitan contractor and
builder, at the time of his birth, conducting a heavy business.
He was one of the earliest settlers of Chicago, being one of its
trustees when it was but a village. He is a veteran of the War
of 181-2, and was a prominent politician in the earlier history of
the city, where he now resides, at the advanced age of eighty-
seven years. Mr. Taylor is a graduate of Notre Dame Univer-
sity, and has chosen the real estate business as his occupation.
He was one of the prime movers in the organization pf the First
Regiment of the State Militia, and took an active part not only
in its formation, but its duties, also. He is a gentleman of en-
thusiastic mind and fine tastes, and delights in seeing everything
in apple-pie order. In politics, he is a Democrat, and has a firm
hold upon the suffrages of the people of his political faith in the
district, from which he was elected to the House of Representa-
tives, in 1882. In this connection, it may not be deemed inap-
propriate to state that his father is the oldest Democrat in
Chicago. In person, Mr. Taylor is a small man, who dresses
neatly, and is polite and genteel in his bearing and conduct, as the
most fastidious could reasonably desire, He is a quick and in-
cisive speaker and, when engaged in discussion, causes one to
wonder that so much power can be stored in so small a body.

228 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. RICHARD H. TEMPLEMAN.

Mr. Templeman was born near Fredricksburg, Tauquier
County, Virginia, April 20th, 1833. James Templeman, his
father, was a typical Virginia farmer, and Richard endured all
of the hardships and privations incident to an agricultural life,
during the early period of his existence. He was educated in
the public schools of his native States, Ohio and Maryland. Mr.
Templeman came to Illinois in 1852, locating in Logan County,
and has never since that time changed his place of residence.
He does not hold membership in any church or secret society,
and is strong minded, liberal and firm in his convictions in re-
gard to sectarianism and its concomitants, though not aggressive
or overbearing in his opinions. He has been for many years,
and now is engaged in farming and breeding fine stock. He has
a magnificent herd of Short-horn cattle, and takes great pride in
its superior merits. His farm consists of two hundred and sixty
acres of number one Logan County lands, in an excellent state of
cultivation. He was born a Democrat, and has no desire to be
disinthralled from his hereditary political preferences. He has
held many minor offices in his township and county, among
which may be enumerated those of Township Supervisor, Clerk,
Treasurer and School Treasurer. He was elected to the House
of Representatives in 1882, as a minority candidate, polling a
very heavy vote. In person, he is tall and portly. When quite
young, he had the misfortune to lose an eye, by accident. He is
jovial in disposition, kind and generous — a man capable of warm
friendship, and no less worthy than capable. He is a good, solid
Legislator, honest, willing and competent.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 229

HON. JOHN W. THOMAS.

Mr. Thomas says he was born in Montgomery, Alabama,
thirty-eight years ago. His father was a steward on a steam-
boat, when John was born. Mr. Thomas came to Illinois in
1868, locating in Chicago, where he now resides. He had re-
ceived a liberal education and followed school teaching for a
livelihood for some time after coming to this State, afterward
abandoning that and establishing himself as a grocer. He soon
determined to become a lawyer, however, and entered the office
of Hawes and Lawrence, the former of whom is now Judge of
the Superior Court in Chicago, where he pursued the usual course
of study, and was, in due time admitted to the Bar. He is a
member of the Baptist Church, and also of the order known as
Knights of Wise Men. Politically, he is a full blooded Repub-
lican. He was a member of the Thirtieth General Assembly of
Illinois, and was afterward a clerk in the Treasury Department
at Washington, resigning the latter office, when elected to the
Thirty-third General Assembly of his State, in 1882. He is a
Representative in the Lower House, elected by a larger vote than
that polled by any other candidate in the Third Chicago District.
He is the only colored man in either house of the Assembly, is
intelligent, well read, polite and affable. He is a good speaker,
and is far superior in power of intellect to a large proportion of
the paler faced members of this Assembly. He is kind and gen-
erous in disposition and does not show any of that vanity which
characterizes the conduct of many men, who have risen from an
humble station in life to a prominent and responsible position in
the government of his State. He has been a member of the order
known as Brothers of the Union, for years, and was President of
the same for five years.

230 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES

HON. HARRY C. THOMPSON.

This gentleman was born at Virginia, Cass County, Illinois, on
August 6th, 1849. His father was a merchant for forty-five
years, and was the first County Clerk Cass County ever had.
Young Thompson received his education at the Asbury Univer-
sity, in 1860-2-3, and removed to St. Louis in 1865. While in St.
Louis, he was engaged in the commission business. He removed
to Greene County, in 1875, remaining one year, engaged in farm-
ing and civil engineering. He then returned to Cass County,
and engaged in fanning his lands near Philadelphia Station.
He soon afterward married Miss Lilah Hall, of Virginia, and is
now devoting his attention to his farm and breeding fine horses.
He is not a member of any church, nor does he affiliate with any
of the secret societies. He is a well informed man, having read
law for his own satisfaction and in order to enable him to suc-
cessfully manage the affairs of his already extensive and con-
stantly increasing business. He is a Democrat from the crown
of his hat to the soles of his shoes, and was elected to the House
of Representatives on that ticket in 1882, over his opponent, by
a very handsome majority. In person, Mr. Thompson is rather
above the average stature, dark complexion, a man of great
physical strength. He is quiet in demeanor, and genial and
polite to all, enjoys a joke as well as anyone, a shrewd financier
and generous hearted gentleman, of whom his constituents are
justly proud.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 231

HON. SAMUEL H. THOMPSON.

Mr. Thompson was born in Pickaway County, Ohio, November
12th, 1829. His educational advantages were very poor, his only
opportunity for acquiring knowledge having been attendance
upon night schools, and his own senses, of observation and appre-
hension. He removed to Illinois in 1860, and located in Pekin ;
but, in 1863, went to Peoria, where he engaged in merchandis-
ing. He succeeded well in business from the very first, and has
now retired with a comfortable fortune and is enjoying the fruits
of his labors, in his more youthful days. In religious belief he is
-a Universalist. He is also a member of one of the secret orders.
Politically, he is a consistent and reasoning Republican, as old
as the party itself, and as faithful to its principles as any of its
devotees could reasonably desire him to be. He was Post Master
•of Darbyville, Spink County, Ohio, prior to coming to this State,
for four years. Since he came to Illinois, he has been a Deputy
'United States Revenue Collector at Pekin. He was elected to
the House of Representatives in 1882, by a majority of seventeen
hundred votes over his colleague on the same ticket. In per-
son, Mr. Thompson is large and corpulent, wearing a full beard
.and looks just what he is, a merchant, who is resting after thirty
years of fatiguing business. He is genial, social and kind in his
intercourse with the public, and generous, though justly careful
in his dealings with his fellow men.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. JAMES T. THORNTON.

This gentleman was born in Kentucky, in 1823, and is, there-
fore, now sixty years of age. His father was the Sheriff of
Green County, Kentucky, at the time of the birth of this son,
and died, when the latter was but three years of age. His
mother, formerly Miss Ann Barret, was a typical Kentucky ma-
tron, and spared no pains to impress upon the mind of her son
a proper appreciation of his ability, duty and destiny. How
many prominent men of our country owe so much of what they
are to the careful training, which they received at the knee of
the noblest, truest and best friend man ever possessed — a mother!
How grand and exalted does the man of eminence appear to us,
when he, in the meridian of his glory, remembers this, and does
honor to her memory! In 1833, Mr. Thornton came to Illinois,
locating in Sangamon County. He followed merchandising for
five years, first at Magnolia, Putnam County, then became a
farmer, and, in 1845, removed to Iowa. He again became a resi-
dent of Putnam County, Illinois, three years later, and has
resided there ever since, following the occupation upon which
all others are equally dependent — that of a farmer. He was edu-
cated in the district schools of Illinois, and what he knows in.
excess of that instruction — and it is much — was acquired by in-
dividual effort He is no member of any church or society, and
his religion is to do right. Politically, he .is a Republican, as
old as the party itself, and no less vigorous. He was a Repre-
sentative in the Twenty-ninth and Thirty-second General Assem-
blies, and occupies his accustomed place in the Thirty-third. On
the issue of temperance, he is a pronounced Prohibitionist. His-
farm consists of three hundred and seventy acres of land, and is
very valuable. He has very fine herds of Shorthorn and Durham
cattle, of which he is justly very proud. He is not above the-
average in stature, just and generous in natural impulse, and
careful and conscientious in all he savs and doe?.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 233

HON. CHARLES H. TRYON.

Bela H. Tryon and Harriet, his wife, formerly a Billings, were
the parents of a happy family on a Massachusetts farm, June
22d, 1827, in Franklin County, in the Bay State. Mr. Tryon and
his parents emigrated to New York State in 1830 and remained
there until 1837, when they came to Illinois, locating in McHenry
County. His education was acquired in the district schools of
the various localities in which his boyhood was passed. Mr.
Tryon chose the avocation of his father and is now engaged in
farming in the county where he resides. He is one of the prom-
inent agriculturalists of his part of the State. He was a Captain
in the Ninety-fifth Illinois Infantry, in 1862-63, serving but one
year. He is not a member of any church ; but is a Free Mason.
He is a staunch Republican, never having severed his allegiance
to that party since he bestowed the favor of his suffrage upon its
candidates in 1856. He is quite a political favorite in his county
and district, and has been a Justice of the Peace and Township
Supervisor for several years. He is serving his first term, as a
Representative, in the Thirty-third General Assembly, having
been elected to that position of honor in 1882. He is a careful
and rather shrewd reasoner, inclined to investigate the merits of
every measure upon which he is expected to vote, and ever on
the qui vive for anything that bears semblance to a job or fat
place, at the expense of the people, without rendering adequate
returns. He is the avowed' enemy of all sorts of swindlers,
games and experimental legislation, being ardently devoted to
the material necessities and practical interests of his constitu-
ents. He is tall and well proportioned, somewhat effected by
age and a life of necessant toil, his hair a little sprinkled with
the silvery fringe of time, and his manner rendered rather sedate
and caustic with the varied experiences in life. He is very gen-
tlemanly and sensible in speech and is kind and generous in
natural impulse. He is a very safe man for the position which
he holds.

234 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. WILLIAM UPDYKE.

This gentleman was born in Trenton, Monmouth County,
New Jersey, August 18th, 1831, to Josiah Updyke, a farmer,
and Mary, his wife. When he was but seven years of age, his
parents emigrated to Ohio, from which State they came to Illi-
nois, in 1858, locating on a farm of one hundred and ninety-five
acres, near Robinson, in Crawford County. The only schooling
he obtained was during the residence of his parents in Ohio,
when he was permitted to attend the district schools about two
months out of each year. The schooling which qualified him
for his present honorable oifice, was obtained by his own deter-
mined and perseverent efforts. The experiences of his early life
gave him a keen relish for knowledge, and his thirst never yet
has been quenched. He has served as County Treasurer of
Crawford County, for three consecutive terms, commencing in
1873. He is a Master Mason and member of the Methodist
Episcopal Church. Mr. Updyke has a farm of two hundred and
sixty-five acres in the vicinity of Robinson, and is largely en-
gaged in breeding and dealing in fine Short-horn cattle. He is
an uncompromising Democrat, and was never anything else,
politically speaking. He was elected as a Representative to the
Thirty-third General Assembly, in 1882, over G. W. Lewis, by
a majority of four thousand five hundred votes. Mr. Updyke is
a typical modern farmer, in appearance. He is plain but tidv in
•dress, solidly and compactly built, gruff, yet genial and affec-
tionate in manner, methodical and cool in argument, and, gen-
erally speaking, a man, who knows what is right and means to
do it at all hazzards. He is a Legislator upon whose strict
integrity and firm convictions his constituency can confidently
rely.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 235

HON. ROBERT D. UTIGER.

Mr. Utiger was born at his present home in Madison County,
Illinois, October llth, 1841. His father was a farmer, and Robert
follows in his footsteps, preferring to help feed the multitude,
rather than consume the fruits of the honest labor of others.
His farm consists of two hundred acres of the excellent farming
lands of his county, and Mr. Utiger cultivates it in a very sys-
tematic and business like manner. He is tfne of those farmers,
who take an honest and justifiable pride in the manner in which
their lands are managed and everything is conducted in a sys-
tematic and intelligent way, which does honor to the governing
mind. The education of this gentleman was acquired in the
district schools of his county. He is, and has always been a
Democrat in politics, and has held various positions of honor and
trust, among which may be mentioned Supervisor, for five years,
Justice of the Peace, for six years, and Post Master of Alhambra,
for twelve years. He was elected to the House of Representa-
tives in 1882, from the Forty-first District, which is Republican,
by a small majority. In person, Mr. Utiger is not above medium
height, wears a full beard, is dark in complexion, a shrewd poli-
tician, and a plain man in dress and speech. He is one of the
members, whose very appearance would belie charges of dishon-
esty and corruption to the satisfaction of all, and he is noble and
generous to a fault. Would that there were more of his kind
in both branches of the Assembly.

236 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. GEORGE H. VARNELL.

Mr. Varnell was born at Georgetown, District of Columbia,
February 2d, 1833. His father was a brick-layer by trade, and
descended from English ancestors. Mr. Varnell came to Illinois
in 1861, locating at -VTt. Vernon, Jefferson County, where he read
law in the office of Farmer & Casey. He was admitted to the
Bar in 1864. His education was acquired in a Catholic School
in Georgetown, D. C. He began business as a house, sign and
ornamental painter, after a three years apprenticeship in Wash-
ington, D. C., having passed a portion of his boyhood on the
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. When he established himself in
business, he had cash capital amounting to twenty-five dollars,
and, in 1861, before coming West, was worth sixty thousand
dollars. He owned a large and valuable plantation near the
place where the Battle of Bull Run was fought, but it was so
pillaged and devastated by the armies as to become almost worth-
less. Although reared a Catholic, he now holds no membership
in any church. He is an Odd Fellow, Knight of Honor, and
member of the Order of Knights and Ladies of Honor. He has
always been a Democrat, and has held many public positions of
responsibility. He has been Mayor of his city for eight years.
He has been Chairman of the County Central Committee of his
party, and a member of the State Committee. A child of poverty,
working on a canal boat at four dollars per month, clad in a suit
which cost one dollar and twenty-five cents, he has risen, by his
untiring exertions, to affluence and honor. James C. Clark, of
the Illinois Central Railway, was Captain of the "Hugh Smith,"
the canal boat, whose mules little George Varnell urged along
the tow-path on the Chesapeake and Ohio. Both are now men
of mark. Mr. Varnell is short and stout in person, and affable,
hearty and kind in disposition. He is a man, who first makes
sure his position, then goes in to win. He never does anything
hastily or rashly. He is largely interested in the hard lumber
trade and saw mills. His constituents have the utmost faith in
him, irrespective of party.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 237

HOX. ALEXANDER. VAUGHEY.

' ' For he himself hath said it,
And it's greatly to his credit,
That he is an Irishman!"

He was born on the boggy soil of Ireland, June 15th, 1836, to
John and Ellen Vaughey, who were engaged in farming and
stock-raising. His grandfather, in honor of whose memory the
subject of this sketch was christened Alexander, was made a
prisoner in the Tara Hill Rebellion, of 1798. Mr. Vaughey
came to the free shores of America, in 1855, and located in New
York ; but came West the next year, and cast his fortunes among
the hospitable people of Grundy County, Illinois. He was not
fully satisfied with his location, and moved to LaSalle County,
in 1857. He acquired friends in a very short time, and soon be-
came an important factor in local politics. He has held offices
of honor, emolument and trust in his town and county, to
such an extent that we cannot even mention them within the
limited space allotted to this sketch. He is a sterling Democrat,
and is considered one of the sachems of the party in the district
from which he was elected. He is a member of the County,
Congressional and Senatorial Committees of his party. He has
been a member of every State Democratic Convention, which has
been held in Illinois, since 1863. His education is cellegiate,
and he has never lost many opportunities for learning by obser-
vation and experiment. He is a Catholic, and holds membership
in the Ancient Order of Hibernians. He was elected to the
Thirty-second and Thirty-third General Assemblies, by rousing
majorities. He is a very popular man in the Twenty-third Dis-
trict, and the probabilities are that we will find him a member of
the Thirty-fourth Assembly. He is short and heavy in person,
jovial and witty in conversation. His eyebrows have a lowering
appearance, which is in marked contrast to the merry twinkle
which they overshadow. He is as generous as one could reason-
ably desire, and, being a fine scholar and forcible speaker, he is
one of the strong men of the House.

238 BlOGBAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. HENRY F. WALKER.

Born in Claremont, New Hampshire, on the 17th of July, 1817,
the subject of this sketch is now sixty-five years old. His par-
ents, Solomon and Charity, resided upon a farm at the time of
his birth, although his father also pursued his avocation as an
architect and builder. In 1826 he came west, locating in Michi-
gan, where he remained until 1855, when he moved to Amboy,
Lee County, Illinois. Mr. Walker was connected with the Illi-
nois Central Railway until 1865, when he removed to Chicago,
when, after a residence of five years in that city, he removed to
Hinsdale, Du Page County, Illinois, where he began practicing
the art of healing the sick. His education was received in the
common schools and academies at the various abiding places of
his parents. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church,
but does nojt affiliate with any .secret society. He is a Republi-
can in politics, but was elected as a Representative to the Thirty-
third General Assembly as an independent candidate, exceeding
the vote of the regular nominee by about eleven hundred major-
ity. He is one of the strong men of the House, and, although
abrupt in speech, is polite and dignified in his relations with the
people. He possesses all of the shrewd and acute qualities of a
born and bred Yankee, and is positive and invulnerable, when he
has thoroughly made up his mind to advocate any given position.
In person, Mr. Walker is below the average stature, his hair and
beard are immaculate in whiteness, and he has an air of patri-
archal dignity, which wins for him the respect and good offices
of all who are associated with him in society, politics or religion.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 2391

HON. DAVID W. WALSH.

Mr. Walsh was born at Chicago, Illinois, March 1st, 1850, and!
has resided in his native city ever since. His father is one of
the Cook County Justices of the Peace. Mr. Walsh was edu-
cated in the public schools of Chicago, and has served as a clerk
in his father's court, and read law at times, as an occupation, since
he has attained his majority. He is a very popular man, and has
a large circle of friends in the district from which he was elected
to the General Assembly, and other portions of the city. In
religious belief, he is a Catholic, but does not hold membership
in any of the secret orders. He is a Democrat in political faith
and works, and has never been anything else. He was one of
the majority candidates for membership in the Lower House of
the General Assembly in 1882, and was elected by a very hand-
some plurality, from the Fifth Senatorial District, of Cook
County. He is a married man, aod has a family consisting of
six children. In person, he is a little above the ordinary stature
of man, fair in complexion, inclined to corpulency, and conveying-
an idea of more than usual strength and positivism, by his
physical appearance and dignified bearing. He is a man of
varied talents, and is kind and genteel in his intercourse with
the public.

240 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. ANDREW WELCH.

This gentleman was born in Canada West, July 9th, 1844, his
father being a teacher by profession, at that time. In 1864, Mr.
Welch came to Illinois, locating at Yorkville, Kendall County,
where he now resides. He was educated in the common schools
of Canada, under many disadvantages ; but, thanks to an ambi-
tious spirit and energetic disposition, he is now a very well edu-
cated and broad-minded man. He is engaged in dealing in
agricultural implements — an occupation as essential to the wel-
fare of the world, in this enlightened day of labor-saving ma-
chinery, as the honored occupation of farming. In 1865,
although not yet a citizen of the United States, Mr. Welch en-
listed in the One Hundred and Forty-seventh Regiment of Illinois
Volunteer Infantry, serving until the close of the Rebellion.
He is a Free Mason, but holds no communion with any church
organization. In politics, Mr. Welch is a Democrat of long
standing and undoubted fidelity to the cause of his party. He
has been Collector of his township, and was elected to the House
of Representatives in 1882, from the Seventeenth District, with-
out opposition. He is connected in business with the Union
Corn Planter Company, of Peoria, Illinois. In person, he is
large and portly, of dark complexion, and a sun-shine disposition.
He is a man of much force of character, and such amiable qual-
ities as endear him to all with whom he associates. The meet-
ings of the House would be deprived of much of their rich
humor and sunny spirit, if he should be stricken down.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 241

HON. JOHN H. WELSH.

This gentleman is a Canadian by birth, having been born at
Bellevue, in the Upper Dominion, June llth, 1834. Morris
Welsh, his father, was a shoe-maker by trade, and moved with
his family, to New York State, in 1840. The education of Mr.
Welsh was acquired in the common schools of the Empire State.
After attaining a sufficient age, he was apprenticed to a miller,
serving a term of two years, and afterward followed the busi-
ness thus learned. He came to Illinois in 1852, locating at Tis-
kilwa, Bureau County. The military record of this gentleman
is very brief. He was drafted, and preferring to be a live miller
rather than a dead hero, he employed a substitute. He is a man,
who believes in Christianity, but is not a member of any church.
He is a Royal Arch Mason. Mr. Welsh is a Democrat, and feels
that his political preference is based upon sound reason and
good judgment. He has been Supervisor of his township, ten
years, Township Clerk, six years, and a member of the School
Board, fourteen years. He was elected from the Nineteenth Dis-
trict as a minority Representative, in 1880, and re-elected in
1882. He is a man of firm convictions, cool judgment and
sterling integrity. He is as honest and frank as anyone could
wish, and is free from that vanity, which sometimes prompts
men to prevaricate, for the purpose of courting popular favor.
In person, he is tall and strong, kind, generous and considerate.
He possesses none of that false idea of dignity, which sometimes
prompts men to look down upon their inferiors, and there is no
such thing as haughtiness in his nature.

242 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES,

HON. AUGUST WENDELL.

This gentleman was born in Prussian Germany, November
llth, 1838, his father being a wagon maker by trade. In 1856,
the subject of our sketch came to Illinois, locating in Chicago,,
where he has continued to reside since that time. His education
was acquired in the common schools of his native country, but
he has become quite proficient in the use of the English language,
as a result of his thoughtful and observant habits. He learned
his trade under the direction and instruction of his father, and is
now proprietor of one of the largest and best appointed wagon
factories in the West. It is located in Chicago, and known a&
August Wendell's Wagon Manufactory. In religious faith, he
is a Lutheran, and belongs to the Mutual Aid Association, of

Illinois* and a German Order known as D O H .

In political conviction, he has ever been a faithful and persistent
Republican, and has found no good cause for changing his
political associations, or forsaking the staunch old ship, to which
lie is indebted for his safe and successful voyage to the House of
Representatives of the Thirty-third General Assembly. He rep-
resents the Ninth District of Cook County. In person, he i&
large and portly, dark in complexion and pleasant, genial and
obliging in his intercourse with the people. Mr. VVendell is
truly an honest Representative, who cannot be induced to sup-
port any measure, which seems tainted with fraud or jobbery,
He stands by his party upon party measures, but when called
upon to speak his convictions through his vote, he stands upon
no platform save that of pure manhood and strict integrity.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 243

HON. SIMEON H. WEST.

Mr. West was born in Kentucky. The names of his parents
are Henry and Mary West. He is another of the farmer's boys,
who have risen from the plow, to stand in the forums of their
State Government. He received a common school education in
the State of his birth, and came to Illinois in 1851, when he be-
gan farming. He has pursued this honorable calling assiduously
from the date of his birth, employing the first two yeai's of his
experience, as an apprentice to his mother, in the milking de-
partment of the farm government. In 1873, he was elected as
a member of the Board of Supervisors of McLean County, and
was re-elected each year until 1881. He is not a memoer of any
church, although he is a moral and upright man in his daily
walk and conversation. He bluntly states his case as "not ad-
mitting of any middle-man between himself and his God." lie
was born and raised an "Old Line Whig," but, in 1858, became
a Democrat, under the banner of Douglas, because he "had no
place else to go," the Whig party having been swallowed up in
the slavery issue, between the Democrats and Republicans, and
he feeling that Democracy covered the demands of right and
justice, better than Republicanism. He was elected to the House
of Representatives from the Twenty-eighth District, as a mi-
nority candidate, in 1882. Mr. West possesses all of the sterling
qualities of mind and heart, which are calculated to endear one
to his associates. Though blunt in expression, he "has a heart
as large as an ox," and, upon acquaintance, he is admired and
respected. He is a hearty joker, and an assiduous laborer for
the good of his constituency. He scrutinizes every measure
carefully, before he votes, and is as firm as the unshaken rocks,
in his opinions and positions. He gives this characteristically
blunt history of himself : "Born in a log-cabin, and rocked in a
sugar-trough, in Bourbon County, Kentucky, and learned to pad-
dle his own canoe at a very early age." He never followed
beaten paths further than they lead in a proper direction, and,
when they seem to go wrong, he does not hesitate to blaze his
own pathway, regardless of fear or favor.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. SAMUEL C. WILEY.

He is a. "Down East Yankee," having first seen the light of
day in the State of Maine, November llth, 1833. Charles, his
father, and Sarah, his mother, were tilling the fertile soil for a
livelihood, when God sent little Sam, to sweeten their joys and
soften their sorrows. He may have possessed all of the procliv-
ities, which are ascribed to the inventor of " wooden nut-megs,"
but we are not in possession of exact information upon this
point, and will not risk the chances of wandering from the truth,
into which the subject might beguile us. However his youth
may have passed, in the very budding time of his manhood, he
was made a resident of La Salle County, Illinois. This was in
1844, and in the common school of the Sucker State, he found
the only educational advantages, which he ever enjoyed. He is
engaged in farming and as a lumber merchant, at Earlville. He
has served his county as one of its Board of Supervisors for
about seven years, and has held other and numerous positions of
honor and trust in his county and district. He is an ardent
Democrat, and has been one since the days of his youth. Upon
its principles his political history is founded, and he does not
seem to think that his faith has been, or ever will be unworthily
bestowed. He was elected to the House by a plurality of some
2,000 votes, in 1882, and is earnestly endeavoring to cast his vote
and raise his voice in behalf of the constituency, which has been
honored in proportion to the honor bestowed upon him by his
election. In personal appearance, Mr. Wiley is tall and well built,
fair in complexion, and alert in his movements and conduct. He
is sympathetic, kind and generous in disposition, and is shrewd
and sensible in debate and conversation. While he may not be
familiar with the wire pulling proclivities of the professional
politician, he is, nevertheless, a strong man, whose friendship is
valuable and enmity dangerous. He is trustworthy and fearless,
and if he ever inadvertan tally votes awry, we venture the assertion
that no one can charge evil motives as the cause of his mistake.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 245

HON. FREDERICK A. WILLOUGHBY.

Mr. Willoughby was born in New Haven, Connecticut, where
he resided until he attained the years of manhood. His father
was a carriage manufacturer, and left nothing that would develop
his son's native talents, undone. Frederick was placed in the
best academies, being graduated from Russell's Farmers' Military
School, and attending the Yale preparatory course at Hopkins
Grammar School. Our subject was an untiring student, and
completed his professional studies within the classic walls of
Yale College. He was early imbued with the principles and
doctrines of Democracy, and was a somewhat noted sumporator
before attaining his majority. He has adhered to the party with
undiminished fidelity ever since. At the commencement of his
professional career, Mr. Willoughby coupled journalism with his
legal labors, and was, from time to time, connected with the
Daily Press of his native city. Had he seen fit to pursue that
profession, he would have probably become one of its most dis-
tinguished devotees. In 1869, he came to Illinois, where he now
resides, and has since been engaged in the practice of the law.
He is one of the leading members of the Knox County Bar. He
has been City Attorney of Galesburg, and a member of its Board
of Education. He is a master of several languages, writing and
speaking German with fluency. In personal appearance, he is a
man of commanding presence, about forty years of age; kind
and generous in disposition, polite and courteous in business in-
tercourse. In debate, his resources are almost unlimited, and he
is a polished and fluent speaker. He is one of the most scholarly
and well informed members of the House of Representatives,
and it is quite evident to one, who has observed his demeanor
and public efforts, that his constituency committed no error in
electing him to the honorable position which he so ably fills.
He is the minority Representative from the Twenty-second
District, having been elected, although there was another Demo-
cratic candidate in the field.

246 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES

HON. ERWIN E. WOOD.

He is a native Illinoisan, born at Plainfield, Will County, Feb-
ruary Gth, 1848. His father is a large farmer, and both he and
his wife came from the Eastern States. Mr. Wood was educated
at the Northwestern College (German), in Plainfield, and subse-
quently attended, for four years, the Northwestern University,
at Evanston, being in the same class with Speaker Collins. He
acquired valuable experience from connection with a Republican
newspaper in Nebraska, of which he was editor for two years.
When but sixteen years of age, he enlisted in the One Hundred
and Thirty-second Regiment of Illinois Volunteers, serving the
last year of the war. He came to Chicago from Nebraska, and
became assis ant editor of the Evening Journal, a position which
he filled for six years. His original anecdotes were widely
copied, and the New York Graphic published his portrait as one
of America's noted writers. He temporarily abandoned journal-
ism, and pursued the study of chemistry and assaying, for three
years, when he boxed his apparatus and went to the mountains
and plains of the West, where he invested in railway and mining
interests, and the shipment of dressed beef, by which efforts he
has already secured a comfortable fortune. He possesses a very
fine collection of minerals and geological specimens, as the result
of his eight trips across the continent, within the past three
years. He ha? an excellent eye for art, and his clay models of
" Palmy Days," and " Against the Grain," have been widely
copied m plaster, and sold as novel designs in statuary. His
family is identified with the Methodist Episcopal Church, but he
holds no membership in any religious or secret society. Mr.
Wood is married, and his beautifully furnished residence in
Springfield, is a favorite resort for the local elite and a large
circle of friends. He is a Republican, and has been one of the
West Park Commissioners, of Chicago, bearing a good official
reputation at the close of his term. He was elected to the House
of Representatives in 1882, in a largely Democratic district
(the Fifth of Cook County), by a very handsome plurality.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 24 7

HON. HENRY WOOD.

Mr. Wood was born at Randolph, Orange County, Vermont,
November 10th, 1824, his father then being engaged in earning
his living, by plying the honorable and indispensable avocation
of a farmer. The family removed to Tunbridge, in the same
county and State, soon afterward, and, in 1836, came to Illinois,
locating at Sycamore, DeKalb County, where the subject of this
sketch now resides. His education was obtained in the common
schools of the Green Mountain State, and those of Illinois. Mr.
Wood followed the example of his father, in choosing his occu-
pation, and is now extensively engaged in farming. He owns
three hundred acres of excellent lands in Illinois, and one hun-
dred and sixty acres in Iowa, and devotes a great deal of atten-
tion to breeding Short-horn cattle, and Poland-China hogs. Mr.
Wood is a Congregationalist, and has always been a leader, and
has faith in a living God ; but, belongs to no secret society. He is
a very pronounced, yet consistent Republican, who had a hand in
the first organization of that party, and has been one of its
faithful adherents and effective advocates, throughout its career.
He has served two terms as Supervisor of his township, and was
a member of the House of Representatives in the Thirty-second
General Assembly, being unanimously re-nominated and tri-
umphantly re-elected in 1882. In personal appearance, he is of
medium height, plain and honest in features, and equally plain,
but neat nevertheless, in dress. He is kind, obliging and gen-
erous in disposition, and is regarded as a straightforward and
conscientious Legislator.

248 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. THOMAS WORTHINGTON, JR.

He is a Tennessean by birth, having first beheld the beauties
of this world at Spencer, in that State, June 8th, 1852, while his
parents were visiting there. His father was a physician, and his
mother, a daughter of Col. Kennedy Long, of Baltimore, Mary-
land. His father was a member of the State Senate of Illinois,
in- the Thirteenth and Fourteenth General Assemblies. Mr..
Worthington came to Illinois in infancy. He is a graduate of
Cornell University, New York, of the class of 1873, and of the
Chicago Law School, class of 1877. In pursuing his search for
legal knowledge, he also read law with Senator Archer, of Pitts-
field, Pike County, and Hoyne, Horton & Hoynej of Chicago..
He is now engaged in practicing his profession in Pittsfield,
where he has already made an enviable reputation for himself,
as an able and assiduous young lawyer. He is a Mason, of the
Degree of Knight Templar. Politically, he is a Republican, of
life-long duration and well dignified ideas. He received ninety-
seven vote^out of the one hundred and twenty -two, constituting
the Senatorial Convention of his party, and was elected to the
House of Representatives in 1882, by a handsome plurality. He
is a very astute law-maker, and an equally acute observer of what
is going on about him. He will win his way to fame, if retained
in oflice. In person, he is above medium stature, fair in com-
plexion, amiable in manners, and kind and generous in disposi-
tion. He will not risk voting, until he has closely scrutinized
the measure under consideration, and then, woe be unto it, if he
discovers a flaw or taint of fraud.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 249

HON. ARCHELAUS N. YANCEY.

Mr. Yancey was born in Montpelier, Orange County, Virginia,
March 24th, 1844. At the date of this gentleman's birth, his
father was a farmer and planter. Mr. Yancey's early experiences
do not materially differ from those of many other men, who
have begun careers of usefulness and honor, by the incidents and
duties of farm life. In 1867, his parents came to Illinois, locat-
ing at Bunker Hill, Macoupin County. The education of this
Representative was academic and collegiate. He passed through
a preparatory course in Hilton Academy, Virginia, afterward en-
tering and graduating from Dartmouth College, New Hampshire.
His professional education was acquired in the Michigan Uni-
versity, from which he is a regular graduate of the Law Depart-
ment, of the class of 1867. Mr. Yancey is a lawyer of great
prominence and acknowledged ability. He practices his profes-
sion at Bunker Hill, where he resides. In politics, he is a Dem-
ocrat, by descent, education, and premeditated determination, to
employ an idiomatic expression, "He is born, bred, and dyed in
the wool." He was elected to the House of Representatives in
1880, and re-elected in 1882, being appointed a member of the
Judiciary Committee at each session. In religious faith, he is
an Episcopalian, and is a member of the Masonic fraternity — a
Master Mason. In person, Mr. Yancey is rather above the aver-
age stature, large and corpulent. He has a fine intellect, the
cultivation of which has not been neglected, in any perceptible
particular. He is one of the most successful debaters on the
floor of the House of Representatives, nearly always securing
the passage of his bills — in. fact, we believe he has never yet
failed in convincing the assembled Representatives that the
measures introduced by him are wise ones, and securing their
passage.

THE RAILWAY COMMISSION,

[THE RETIRING BOARD.]

HON. WILLIAM M. SMITH,

CHAIRMAN OF THE RAILROAD AND WAREHOUSE COMMISSION.

" Hilly Smith," as he is known throughout the length and
breadth of Illinois, was born in Franklin County, Kentucky,
May 23d, 1827. He removed to St. Louis County, Missouri, in
1840, and, in 1846, to the northern part of McLean County, Illi-
nois, where he has since resided. His education was such as the
common schools of the time afforded When nineteen years of
age, he began working on a farm, by the month, at ten dollars per
month. This continued for four years, and the last year his
wages were raised to twelve dollars and a half per month. From
these wages he had saved one hundred dollars, and, in 1849, he
entered eighty acres of land, at one dollar and twee ty-five cents
per acre, which he improved and still owns. He lived on the
farm until 1857, when he moved to Lexington, Illinois, and
entered the mercantile business. He was elected on the Repub-
lican ticket, from McLean County, to the Twenty-fifth, Twenty-
sixth and Twenty-seventh General Assemblies of Illinois, and
was made Speaker of the House of Representatives of the
Twenty-seventh Assembly, in 1871. The history of the Repub-
lican party in Illinois, could not be written without reference to
the labors of Mr. Smith. He was present at that party's birth,
and has followed its fortunes with singular fidelity. He is
thoroughly identified with the progress of the State, and much
of the legislation of the last twenty years bears the impress of

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 251

his genius. He early viewed, with apprehension, the encroach-
ment of corporate bodies upon the rights of the people. He was
appointed Railroad and Warehouse Commissioner by Governor
Cullom, in January, 1877, and was chairman of that board for
six years. Time has proved the wisdom of his selection. As
the advanced position now occupied by the Railroad Commission
of Illinois, is largely due to his untiring zeal in the execution of
the law, which he was instrumental in creating. He was a mem-
ber of the State Board of Agriculture for many years, until fail-
ing health compelled him to resign. He is a member of the
Methodist Church, and of the Masonic Fraternity.

HON. WILLIAM H. ROBINSON,
MEMBER OF BOARD OF RAILROAD AND WAREHOUSE COMMISSIONERS.

Mr. Robinson wras born in Lawrence County, Illinois, January
31st, 1837, his father being a farmer. When yet a mere boy, his
family removed to Indiana, the education of our subject being
acquired in the public schools of that and his native State. In
1857, William removed to Fail-field, Illinois, where he studied
law After his admission to the Bar, in 1860, he began the
practice of his profession, in the same place, where he is now re-
garded as an eminent lawyer. He was a delegate to the National
Republican Convention, which met at Baltimore, in 1864, also,
to the conventions of 1868 and 1876, at Chicago and Cincinnati,
respectively. He was Presidential elector from his Congressional
District in 1872. He enlisted in Company "G," Eighteenth
Illinois Infantry, in 1861, and was elected and commissioned
Lieutenant. He was detailed as Adjutant of the Regiment,
Colonel — afterward General U. S. Grant, acting as mustering
officer at Camp Anna, Union County, Illinois, until November of
the same year, when he was discharged on account of disability.
He was appointed Railroad and Warehouse Commissioner by
Governor Cullom, January 20th, 1881, as the legal member of the
Board. During the two years he has held this office, Mr. Rob-
inson has rendered valuable services to the shipping and prodnc-
ing interests of the State, and his cause has met the universal
approval of the people.

252 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. GEORGE M. BOGUE,

MEMBER OF THE RAILROAD AND WAREHOUSE COMMISSION.
This prominent gentleman was born at Norfolk, St. Lawrence
County, New York, January 21st, 1842. His father and mother
were named Warren S. and Sally, respectively. His education
is chiefly such as he could secure in the common schools of the
Empire State, although he afterward pursued a partial course of
study in Cayuga Lake Academy, at Aurora, Cayuga County, New
York. Mr. Bogue came to Chicago in 1856. His first position
was that of a clerk in a rail way freight office, where he continued
for about three years. In 1864, he was employed in the Land
Department of the Illinois Central Rail way Company, remaining
three years, when he engaged in general real estate business in
the city of Chicago — a calling which he has continued to pursue
since that time, and in which he is now engaged. In 1864, he
was elected Town Clerk of the Town of Hyde Park, Cook
County, but resigned in 1866. Three years later, he was elected
Town Treasurer of Hyde Park, and reelected to the same office
three times in succession. He resigned the office early in 1873'.
He was elected a member of the Board of County Commissioners
of Cook County, in 1872, on the general ticket, serving one term.
In 1874, he was elected to the Lower House of the General
Assembly, serving one term, as a Republican Representative
from the Second Senatorial District. He was appointed Rail-
road and Warehouse Commissioner, in 1877, by Governor Shelby
M. Cullom, and has served six years. In recognition of his
great merits as a railway business man, Mr. Bogue was unani-
mously elected Arbitrator for the three Western Pools, known
as the Southwestern . Railway Association; Iowa Trunk Line
Association, and Colorado Trafic Association. He is a Republi-
can in politics, and a Presbyterian in religion. Mr. Bogue is
one of the best business men connected with the Railway inter-
ests of the Northwest.

HON. JOHN MOSES,
SECRETARY OP THE RAILROAD AND WAREHOUSE COMMISSION.

This gentleman was born at Niagara Falls, New York, and
came to Illinois when a small boy, forty-five years ago, residing
at Winchester, Scott County, until his accession to his present

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 253

office. Mr. Moses possesses a very excellent education, and has
held numerous positions of honor and trust in his county, district
and State. In political belief and practice, he is a firm, yet con-
sistent Republican. He was Circuit Clerk of Scott County four
years, and County Judge, four years. He was also a member of
the Lower House of the General Assembly, in 1875. He was
Private Secretary to Governor Richard Yates, from 1862 to 1864,
• when he materially assisted in forming the Seventieth Illinois
Regiment. He was appointed by Lincoln, as Internal Revenue
Assessor, for the Tenth District. He held that office for three
years. He was appointed Secretary of the Railway and Ware-
house Commission in It 80, and has discharged the duties of that
office faithfully and ably ever since. As a politician, he is prom-
inent and influential, having very materially aided his party by
his writings for numerous newspapers, and by his unremitted en-
ergy in the work of conventions. His office is a model of neat-
ness and orderly arrangement, and he is thoroughly conversant
with its duties and requirements. Judge Moses is certainly not
out of place in the honorable position which he now occupies.
He is a strong personal friend of Senator S. M. Cullom.

J. OTIS HUMPHREY,
LEGAL SECRETARY, RAILROAD AND WAREHOUSE COMMISSION.

The subject of this sketch was born on a farm near Jackson-
ville, Morgan County, Illinois, December 30th, 1850. His
parents — both natives of Ohio — were married in 1844, and five
years later, removed to Illinois. The boyhood and youth of Mr.
Humphrey were passed upon the farm, near Auburn, Sangamon
County, where his father has resided since 1855. His mother
died in 1804. His education, begun at the country school near
his home, was supplemented by a classical course at Shurtliff
College, Alton, where he was graduated with class honors in
Is7c. During his course, he devoted considerable attention to
the subject of oratory, in which he developed much ability, and
was chosen by the faculty of his college, as her representative
at the Inter-collegiate contest of Illinois, held at Jacksonville, in
1875, in which he won the second honors. He also received the
Mills prize medal, awarded for excellence in oratory, on the day

254 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

of his graduation, in a class of fourteen. He studied law with
the firm of Robinson, Knapp & Shutt, in Springfield, and was
admitted to the Bar in 1880, during which year he was Chief
Clerk in the office of the Census Supervisor of the Capital Dis-
trict. In the autumn of that year, he was employed by the
Railroad and Warehouse Commission, since which time he has
served the Board as its Legal Secretary. He has recently formed
a law partnership with Hon. H. S. Green and F. W. Burnett,
Esq. The firm will rank among the strongest in the State.
There are few men in Illinois, whose fortune seems so full of
promise as that of Mr. Humphrey. He is popular with the
masses. His good qualities, added to his character, ability and
zeal, leads us to predict for him a career of great success and
extended usefulness. He is a prominent Odd Fellow.

THE NEW RAILROAD AND WAREHOUSE COMMIS-
SION.

HON. WILLIAM NEWELL BRAINARD,

PRESIDENT OF THE RAILROAD AND WAREHOUSE COMMISSION.

This gentleman was born in Madison County, New York,
January 7th, 1823. He is a lineal descendent of the Brainards,
of the collonial history of Connecticut. His grandmother was
one of the few, who escaped the fearful Indian massacre at
Wyoming. By occupation, his father was originally a hatter,
but afterward became a farmer. Our subject was educated at
the De Ruyter Institute, in his native village. He afterward
taught school and read law for some time, but, in 1845, removed
to Rome, New York, where he engaged in business connected
with transportation and warehouse business, on the Erie Canal.
He went to California in 1850, and engaged in business as a
grain and produce dealer, in Sacramento, where he ran for
County Treasurer, as a Democrat, and was completely over-
whelmed by know-nothing votes. He was elected City Clerk of
Sacramento in 1856, and served one year, when he concluded to
locate in Chicago, which he did in 1857. He has resided in that

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 255

city and vicinity ever since. He has been a member of the Chi-
cago Board of Trade for twenty-five years, has served as one of
its directors three terms, and, as Vice President, three terms.
He was one of the founders of the so-called "Call Board." Gov-
ernor Beveridge appointed him as one of the Board of Canal
Commissioners in 1873, and served four years in that capacity.
He has been a Republican for the last twenty-five years. He is
a noble looking and kind hearted gentleman.

HON. CHARLES T. STRATTAN,
MEMBER OF THE RAILROAD AND WAREHOUSE COMMISSION.

Mr. Strattan was born at Wellington, Ohio, May 7th, 1853, his
father then being proprietor of a general store, and a miller.
The family came to Illinois in 1855, locating in Mercer County,
but removed from there to Mount Vernon, Jefferson County,
where Charles and his father now reside, in 1857. The father
of our subject in now engaged in general merchandise and man-
ufacturing. Charles was a careful student and persevering
young man, generally. He longed for a good education, and his
father afforded him ample opportunity to acquire it. He pursued
his studies in the common schools with unusual diligence, and
succeeded in leaving them with a far better than merely rudi-
mentary education. After having made good use of his common
school privileges, he entered McKendree College, at Lebanon,.
Illinois, and, after an incomplete course, continued his researches,
at Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, and the Wesleyan
University, of Ohio. His career, since attaining his majority,
has been essentially that of a teacher. In 1872, he began teach-
ing in the public schools of Mount Vernon, continuing until
called to >• ashville, Edwardsville and Smith Academy, the latter
being a St. Louis institution of learning. He has always been a
Republican, was elected to the House of Representatives in 1880,
and received the nomination of his party for the office of State
Superintendent of Public Instruction in 1882, but was defeated
at the polls. He was appointed to his present office by Governor
Hamilton, in February, 1883.

256 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

HON. EDWARD C. LEWIS.
MEMBER OF THE RAILROAD AND WAREHOUSE COMMISSION.

This gentleman was born in LaSalle County, Illinois, October
5th, 1844. His parents were Samuel R. Lewis and Ann E. (Har-
ley) Lewis, his father being identified with the pioneer move-
ments of the Abolitionists, of Pennsylvania. After coming to
Illinois, his father continued pursuing the avocation of a farmer,
was afterward, in 1857, made County Treasurer of LaSalle
County, serving four years, and was State Senator from 1878 to
1882. Edward's education was acquired in the common schools
of his county, Lake Forrest Seminary, Chicago University, and
Wheaton College. He then read law in the office of Glover,
Cook & Camp, at Ottawa, Illinois, and was admitted to the Bar.
After seven years of successful practice, he became a farmer, in
1873, and has continued to exercise that most honorable calling
since that date. He has been an avowed Republican, ever since
he can first remember, and was a member of the Board of Su-
pervisors of his county, seven years. He was Chairman of the
Board from 1880 to 1881. This is a large and populous county,
and its Board numbers forty-five members. He is a member of
the Congregational Church, and a Free Mason, of the Knight
Templar degree. His present residence is Deer Park, La Salle
County, Illinois, He was appointed one of the Railroad and
"Warehouse Commissioners in February, 1883, by Governor John
M. Hamilton. He is well qualified for the responsible position,
and in every way worthy of the honor thus conferred upon him.

HON. NOBLE D. MUNSON,
SECRETARY OF THE RAILROAD AND WAREHOUSE COMMISSION.

Mr. M;mson was born at Bristol, Vermont, September 21st,
1829. The father of our subject was a merchant and iron manu-
facturer, and the son learned the same trade and profession,
during his boyhood, The education of Mr. Munson was acquired
in the common schools and academies of his native State. Mr.
Munson came to Chicago in 1852, and entered business in the
employment of the Michigan Southern Railroad. He gradually
worked his way until he became Division Superintendent of the
Chicago, Burlington & Quincy, remaining in that position until

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 257

In July, 1878, when he resigned on account of ill health. Since
1881, he has been engaged in the hard lumber trade in Southeast
Missouri and Arkansas, until appointed Secretary of the Railroad
and Warehouse Commission, in March, 1883. Mr. Munson is an
Odd Fellow of the rank of Past Grand, but is not a member of
church. In politics, he is a Republican, his father having been
a Whig prior to the Rebellion, and Noble espousing the cause of
the Republican party when it came into being. His residence,
prior to his appointment, was at Quincy, Illinois, but he has now
located at the State Capital. In person, Mr. Munson is rather
portly, kind, polite and affable. He is a man of wide experience
in railroad affairs, and is thoroughly qualified for his honorable
position.

STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

HON. STEPHEN D. FISHER,

SECRETARY OF THE STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.

Mr. Fisher was born in Charlotte, Vermont, March 7th, 1822.
When but one year of age, he removed with his parents to Essex,
New York, where he attended the common schools. He also
gained a portion of his education by a course of study at West
Point Academy. He came to Rochester, Illinois, in 1844, and
taught one term of three months in the Baker District, Sangamon
County. He afterward had charge of the schools at Rochester,
in the same county, for one year, when he returned to his New
York home, and pursued the same avocation there. He again
•came to Illinois in 1850, and taught the Rochester school two
winters, when he married Miss Marion J. St. Clair, who died in
1867. After his marriage, Mr. Fisher located at Waynesville,
Illinois, where he became book-keeper in a general store. The
firm for which he worked, removed to Atlanta, Illinois, two years
later, and regarding his services as indispensable, took him along.
He remained with this house until 1875, when he came to Spring-
field and was appointed Secretary of the State Board of Agricul-
ture, a position, which he has filled with marked energy and
ability ever since. Previous to acquiring his present office, he

258 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

had been a member of the Board of which he is now Secretary,.
for four years, and member of the State Board of Equalization
for three years. He married Miss Elzina M. Benton, his present
wife, October 20th, 1868. Mr. Fisher is a staunch Republican
in politics, and thoroughly understands the affairs of his office.
His official reports are methodically prepared, and yet so simple
as to enable the most obtuse farmer to understand them, if he-
can read at all. He is evidently the right man in the right place.

COL. CHARLES FRANCIS MILLS,

ASSISTANT SECRETARY AND CHIEF CLERK STATE BOARD OF AGRI-
CULTURE.

Mr. Mills was born at Montrose, Pennsylvania, May 29th, 1844,.
his father being a lawyer and journalist. The family came to
Illinois in 1855, locating at Upper Alton. He has been actively
engaged in farming and stock breeding, near Springfield, since
the war. The Elmwood farm, of which he is proprietor, has a,
national reputation among breeders and dealers in fine stock.
He served during the war as a private in Company " C." One
Hundred and Twenty-fourth Illinois, and Hospital Steward in
the regular army. He is also a very active member of the State
Militia, being Adjutant of the Second Brigade. He is a member
of the following orders: Masons, Odd Fellows and Grand Army
of the Republic. He has been Secretary of the Sangamon
County Fair Association for years, and is connected in a more or
less prominent manner with all of the leading Agricultural and
Stock Breeders' Associations of the country, He has held the
presidency of some of these national associations, and is one of
the most prominent breeders of fine stock in the country. He is
now serving his tenth year as Assistant Secretary and Chief
Clerk of the State Board of Agriculture. He is pre-eminently in
place in this office.

JOHN w. WHIPP,

ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF THE STATE BOARD OF CHARITIES.

Mr. Whip]) was born in England in 1824, and came to Illinois
at the age of fourteen, locating at Beardstown. His education

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 259

was acquired in England, and he worked on a farm for seven
years, after coming to this country. From the time of attaining
his majority until thirty years old, he was a clerk at L'eardstown.
He afterward read law. He then came to Springfield, and was
a clerk in Bunn's Bank, for about eight years. In 1857, or 1858,
he does not exactly remember which, he was called as an expert,
in the celebrated Matteson Scrip Case, being the principal wit-
ness, and succeeding in bringing to light the frauds which had
been perpetrated against the State. He was assistant State
Treasurer under Butler, for three years, after which, he removed
to Bloomington, where he was a partner in the banking house of
Holder & Company. Six years ago, he was appointed to the
position which he now holds. He is a staunch Republican, of
course.

CHARLES WESLEY DAY,

SECRETARY STATE BOARD OF PHARMACY.

Mr. Day was born at Wilmington, Delaware, May 3d, 1843.
He came to Illinois in 1873, and has since resided in Champaign
and Wabash Counties. He received a good, practical education
in his native city, and afterward, served an apprenticeship to a
druggist, and attended lectures at the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,
School of Pharmacy. At the early age of sixteen years, he
enlisted in the Union Army, serving two years. He is a Free
Mason of the Rank of Knight Templar. In politics, he has
always been an uncompromising Republican, of the Stalwart
persuasion. In 1881, during the month of July, he was appointed
one of the members of the then newly created State Board of
Pharmacy, and was chosen to fill the vacancy caused by the
resignation of the Secretaryship by Frank Fleury. He is well
qualified for his position, and is diligent and accurate in the per-
formance of his duties.

FRANCIS A. FREER,

(Omitted in list of Senate Officers.)

CLERK OF GROUP NO. 2, SENATE COMMITTEES

Mr. Freer was born at Butler, Pennsylvania, April 6th, 1843,
his father being a carpenter and joiner by trade. Ilis paternal

260 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

ancestors were French Hueguenots, and were prominently iden-
tified with the struggle for American Independence. In 1859
the family came to Illinois, where Francis acquired his educa-
tion in the public schools and Hedding College, from which he
graduated in 1871. He earned means for attending college by
hewing timber, and laboring in the harvest-field, during vaca-
tions. He is a Republican, and has been a Justice of the Peace
in Knox County, for three years, resigning in 1879, when he re-
moved from Henderson to Galesburg, where he now resides.
He was a private soldier during the war. He is clerk of the
Senate Group, No. 2, consisting of the Committees on Penal and
Reformatory Institutions, Education and Educational Institu-
tions, and County and Township Organization.

DR. JOHN H. RAUCH,

SECRETARY OF THE BOARD OF HEALTH.

John H. Rauch was born at Lebanon, Pennsylvania, Septem-
ber 4th, 1828. He was graduated from the Medical Department
of the University of Pennsylvania, in the spring of 1849. In
1850, he located at Burlington, Iowa, where he entered upon the
practice of his profession. His attention was directed to the re-
lation of ozone to disease, in 1850. During the prevalence of
cholera, he called the attention of Congress to the necessity of
providing medical aid for those engaged in marine pursuits on
Western waters, and succeeded in his effort, being made one o*
the committee to select sites for marine hospitals. He was also
successful in having the cemetery used as a burial place for vic-
tims of cholera abandoned, on account of the increase of cases
following the interment of victims, near his home. In 1855-56,
he assisted Professor Agassiz in collecting material for his work,
"The Natural History of the Northwest," securing a valuable
collection of piscatorial specimens. He afterward visited South
America, to investigate the sanitary condition of the ruins of
Venezuela, during which he made a valuable collection for the
Chicago Academy of Natural Sciences. He is a prominent
member of numerous medical societies, having been President
of the American Medical Association, in 1858. He is a member

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 261

of most of the well known scientific associations of the United
States. He is the author of many scientific and medical trea-
ties, principal among which are " The Medical and Economical
Botany of Iowa," and "Intramural Interments and their Influences
on Health." In 1857, he was elected to the chair of Ma-
teria Medica, in Rush Medical College, Chicago, a position
which he retained three years. He served as Surgeon and Med-
ical Director during the entire war, being brevetted Lieutenant
Colonel. He was instrumental in organizing the Chicago Board
of Health, of which he was an efiicient and valuable member.
In 1870, he wrote a " Sanitary History of Chicago." He has
been Secretary of the State Board of Health since its organiza-
tion, and is one of the best informed scientists in the country.
He is almost master of the sciences, and is a valuable acquisition
to the State Government.

HON. EGBERT B. BROWN.

MEMBER STATE BOARD OF EQUALIZATION.

This gentleman was born in Jefferson County, New York,
October 24th, 18*16. His ancestors had come to this country with
William Penn. Although Quakers, the ancestors of Mr. Brown
were active participants in the War of 1812, on the Michigan
frontier. Our subject had but few educational advantages ; but
he made the most of hi sopportunities, and now is a thoroughly
informed gentleman. In 1833, he removed to Chicago, where he
was a clerk in the house of Hubbard & Co., for two years. In
1838, he sailed on board a whaler, as a man before the mast, on
a voyage in the South Pacific Ocean, being made a harpooner in
two years, and was successful in the performance of the duties of
his hazzardous occupation. Returning to the States in 1842, he
engaged in mercantile pursuits in Toledo, Ohio, where ho built
the first large grain elevator west of Buffalo. During his resi-
dence in that city, he was Vt ay or one term. Being enga<rc'»l in
railroad business, he naturally followed the course of construction,
and, in 1856, was engaged to open the trade for the Wabash
Railroad in St. Louis, being so employed when the War of the
Rebellion called him to the field. He assisted in recruiting and
organizing the Seventh Regimentof Missouri Volunteer Infantry
and became its Lieutenant Colonel. ' In May, 1862, he was com-
missioned Brigadier General of Militia, and, in November of the

262 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

same year, President Lincoln commissioned him a Brigadier
General of Volunteers, for meritorious and commendable services.
He served from the first part of the war until Nov. 10th, 1865,
when, his term being ended, he resigned. He was wounded three
times, once in the shoulder, once in his hip and once in another
portion of his body. His wounds have been quite painful during
late years. The State Legislature of Missouri tendered a vote of
thanks to his command for its services in repelling an attack led
by Gen. John Marmaduke. Gen. Brown received a wound that
confined him to his bed for nearly a year, in this engagement.
He is a member of the Episcopal Church, a Mason and Odd Fel-
low. In politics, he is and has. always been a Democrat. He
was unanimously nominated to his present office, having no
opponent in the convention or at the polls. He resides at
Hastings Landing, Calhoun County, and is a well informed,
enegetic and noble old gentleman.

HON. HENRY C. FELTMAN,

MEMBER OF STATE BOARD OP EQUALIZATION.

Mr. Feltman was born in St. Louis, Missouri, December 15th,
1849. His father, Charles Feltman, was a grocer and baker at
that time. The family removed to Salem, Illinois, where Henry
now resides, September 2d, 1852, and the subject of our sketch
received a good substantial education in the public schools of
that city. Henry was a lively, mischievous lad, who took great
pleasure in the sports and amusements incident to his time of
life, and was ever ready to turn an honest penny. Ex-Governor
Henry Warmouth, the Carpet-bag governor of Louisiana, was a
boy in Salem, and Henry Feltman was frequently associated with
him in sport or business. It is said that Young Warmouth at
one time took a contract to black a number of stoves at fifteen
cents each, and hired Feltman and other boys to do the work for
five cents each, while he bossed the job. The truth of this Tom
Sawyer like story is vouched for by Mr. Feltman and numerous
old residents of Salem. Mr. Feltman was somewhat ambitious,
and read law with Hon. John B. Kagy, was admitted to the bar
in September, 1872, and is nowa partner of his preceptor. The
firm of Kagy & Feltman enjoys a lucrative and constantly in-
creasing practice. He married Miss Emma C. Kagy, daughter

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 263

•of his partner in business in 1875 and they now have three chil-
dren— two boys and one girl. Mr. Feltman is not a member of
any church, but is an Odd Fellow and Knight of Honor. In the
former order, he has been Grand Marshal of the Grand Lodge.
In politics he is an uncompromising Democrat, and has held
numerous local offices of honor and trust in his city and town-
ship. He has been Mayor of Salem, two terms. He was elected
to his present office by a large majority, from the old Sixteenth
Congressional District — the Nineteenth under the apportionment
of 1882. Mr. Feltman is a man of noble impulses and generous
•disposition and has many friends and few enemies.

SENATE COMMITTEES.

JUDICIARY.

Hunt, Chairman; Condee, Torrance, Fifer, Adams, Morris,.
Campbell, Mason, Clark, Sunderland, Whiting, Shaw, Archer,
Walker, Rinehart, Merritt, Edwards, Duncan, Lemma.

JUDICIAL DEPARTMENT.

Clark, Chairman; Fifer, Torrance, Mason, Campbell, Condee,
Morris, Tanner, Laning, Bell, Vandeveer, Hamilton, Rinehart,.
Kelly, Walker.

RAILROADS.

Tanner, Chairman; Condee, Mamer, Adams, Fifer, Rogers,
Hogan, Evans, White, Whiting, Walker, Merritt, Lemma, Rine-
hart, Kelly, Shumway, Cloonan.

CORPORATIONS.

Condee, Chairman; Mason, Hogan, Mamer, Kirk, Evans,
White, Fifer, Ainsworth, Torrance, Kelly, Laning, Bridges, Gill-
ham, Cloonan.

APPROPRIATIONS.

Secrest, Chairman; Sunderland, Fifer, Kirk, Ihorn, White,.
Campbell, Clough, Needles, Lemma, Rinehart, Hamilton, Bell,
Seiter, Hereley.

REVENUE.

Needles, Chairman; Morris, Ainsworth, Rice, Sunderland r
Whiting, White, Clough, Torrance, Lemma, Laning, Merritt,
Duncan, Hereley, Bridges.

WAREHOUSES.

Mason, Chairman; Hogan, Condee, Fifer, Mamer, Ihorn,
Wright, Bell, Seiter, Bridges, McNary.
MUNICIPALITIES.

White, Chairman; Adams, Condee, Fifer, Secrest, Evans,
Ruger, Tanner, Mamer, Laning, Shaw, Cloonan, Hereley, Walk-
er, Rinehart.

SENATE COMMITTEES. 265

FINANCE.

Sunderland, Chairman; Hogan, Berggren, Tubbs, Ray, Kelly,
Seiter, McNary, Hereley.

EXPENSES OF GENERAL ASSEMBLY.

Ains worth, Chairman; Whiting, Secrest, Mamer, Edwards,
Kelly, Bridges.

INSURANCE.

Evans, Chairman; Sunderland, Campbell, Mason, Tanner,
Needles, Berggren, Laning, Yandeveer, Merritt, Shumway, Ham-
ilton, Edwards.

BANKS AND BANKING.

Rice, Chairman: Rogers, Tubbs, Wright, Vandeveer, Seiter,
Shaw.

STATE CHARITABLE INSTITUTIONS.

Fifer, Chairman; Fletcher, Kirk, Rice, Sunderland, Adams,
Clough, Tubbs, Torrance, Bell, Gillham, Bridges, Hereley,
McNary, Laning.

PENAL AND REFORMATORY INSTITUTIONS.

Berggren, Chairman; Tanner, Hunt, Secrest, Fletcher, Ruger,
Snyder, Needles, Ray, Kelly, Merritt, Walker, Vandeveer, Shum-
way, Hereley.

PUBLIC BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS. •

Kirk, Chairman; Ainsworth, Tanner, Torrance, Clough, Ham-
ilton, Bridges, Archer, Duncan.

EDUCATION AND EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS.

Torrance, Chairman; Tubbs, Whiting, Rice, Wright, Ruger,
Ray, Kirk, Lem>na, Walker, Edwards, Duncan, Shumway.

CANALS AND RIVERS.

Ray, Chairman; Whiting, Rice, Adams, Ainsworth, Clough,
Condee, Campbell, Hunt, Bell, Duncan, Shaw, Archer, Seiter,
Shumway.

AGRICULTURE AND DRAINAGE.

Rogers, Chairman; Snyder, Wright, Sunderland, Hunt, Ihorn,
Evans, White, Clark, Archer, Kelly, Shaw, Gillham, Cloonan,
McNary.

HORTICULTURE.

Tnbbs, Chairman; Fletcher, Ihorn, Rogers, Gillham, Vande-
veer, Seiter.

MINES AND MINING.

Ihorn, Chairman; Morris, Clark, Ainsworth, Hunt, Evans,
Lemma, Duncan, Seiter, Laning, Cloonan.

266 SENATE COMMITTEES.

LABOR AND MANUFACTURES.

Ruger, Chairman; Rice, Rogers, Whiting, Gillham, Hereley,
McNary.

COUNTY AND TOWNSHIP ORGANIZATION.

Morris, Chairman; Fletcher, Wright, Snyder, Ains worth, Tan-
ner, Ray, Secrest, Rogers, Ihorn, Gillham, Archer, Shumway,
Edwards, Bridges.

FEES AND SALARIES.

Hogan, Chairman; Fletcher, Berggren, Snyder, Tubbs, Ham-
ilton, Rinehart, Laning, Bell.

PRINTING.

Campbell, Chairman; Adams, Wright, Rice, Rogers, Secrest,
Merritt, Cloonan, Vandeveer.

MILITARY AFFAIRS.

Clough, Chairman; Ruger, Condee, Evans, Mason, Needles,
Secrest, Tanner, Vandeveet, Gillham, Lemma, Hereley, Merritt.

ROADS, HIGHWAYS AND BRIDGES.

Fletcher, Chairman; Secrest, Kirk, Sunderland, Hogan, Clark,
Snyder, Whiting, Ray, Archer, Bell, Kelly, Bridges, Hamilton,
Gillham.

FEDERAL RELATIONS.

. Adams, Chairman; Torrance, Secrest, Kirk, Hunt, Needles,
Rinehart, Seiter, Duncan.

ELECTIONS.

Wright, Chairman; Needles, Morris, Berggren j Ihorn, Mamer,
Archer, Shaw, McNary.

STATE LIBRARY.

Snyder, Chairman; Fletcher, Clark, Hunt, Ray, Morris, Ham-
ilton, Yandeveer, Edwards.

ENROLLED AND ENGROSSED BILLS.

Morris, Mamer, Edwards, Shaw.

GEOLOGY AND SCIENCE.

Snyder, Chairman; Clark, Hunt, Berggren, Kirk, Ruger,
Walker, Shumway, Duncan.

MISCELLANY.

Mamer, Chairman; Hogan, Evans, linger, Mason, Clark,
White, Rice, Bell, Shumway, Edwards, McNary, Cloonan.

COMMITTEES ON VISITATION.

Penal and Reformatory Institutions — Torrance, Bell.
State Charitable Institutions — Kirk, McNary.
Educational Institutions — Tubbs, Gillham.

HOUSE COMMITTEES.

JUDICIARY,

Chairman, Morrison; Littler, Fuller, Calhoun of Vermilion,
Cowperthwait, Manahan, Bethea, Worthington, Hoffman, Cooke,
Gregg, Yancey, Linegar, Quinn, Kimbrough, Sullivan of Cook,
Willoughby.

JUDICIAL DEPARTMENT.

Sumner, Crews, Boyer, Messick, Johnson, Parish, McCartney,
Erwin, McFie, Littler, Billings, O'Mara, Day, Baker, Grear,
Kinman, Purnell.

CORPORATIONS.

Parish, Pearson of McDonough, Hawker, Worthington,
Adams, Parker, Curtis, Walker, McFie, Cooke, Cronkrite, Bill-
ings, Murray of Sangamon, Gregg, Baker, Purnell, Sullivan of
Cook.

RAILROADS.

Mitchell, Manahan, Thompson of Peoria, Littler, Hiatt, Crews,
Calhoun of Vermilion, Harper, Emerson, Lawrence, Herrington,
Cronkrite, Yancey, Welch of Kendall, Carlin, Sexton, Day.

WAREHOUSES.

Harper, Thompson of Peoria, Rogers, Thomas, Ray, Mitchell,
Pearson of Madison, Fuller, Curtis, Jones, Cronkrite, Billings,
Sheridan, Carlin, Henry, Gallup, Clinton.

APPROPRIATIONS.

Pearson of Madison, Black, Funk, Lawrence, Collier, Coats,
Foster, Scurlock, Hiatt, Hawker, Cronkrite, Crandall, Baker,
Kimbrough, Kinman, Taylor of Kankakee, Welch of Kendall.

EDUCATION.

Erwin, Hester, Stimming, Emerson, Worthington, Jones, Wood
of Cook, Calhoun of Vermilion, Fairbanks, Bethea, Sullivan
of St. Clair, Willoughby, Kimbrough, Brink, Lodge, Rountree,
Canniff.

268 HOUSE COMMITTEES.

STATE INSTITUTIONS.

McFie, Hoskinson, Jones, Thomas, McCartney, Lawrence,
Hiatt, Tryon, Wood of Cook, Walker, Richardson, McNally,
Canniff, Updyke, Purnell, Starkel, Herrington.

REVENUE.

Littler, Fuller, Cowperthwait, Boyer, Crews, Crocker, Calhoun
of Vermilion, Mathews, Parish, Haines, Herrington, Linegar,
Starkel, Day, Klupp, Willoughby, Taylor of Kankakee.

AGRICULTURE, HORTICULTURE AND DAIRYING.

Thornton, Tryon, Roane, Hawker, Ansley, Cowperthwait,
Hammond, Boardman, Brown, Funk, Templeman, Utiger, Jen-
nings, Wiley, West, Downing, Cleary.

CANAL AND RIVER IMPROVEMENT.

Adams, Fairbanks, Mathews, Wood of DeKalb, Lackie, Owen,
Cleaveland, Hoffman, Wood of Cook, Hawker, Duffy, Quinn,
Crandall, Vaughey, Gallup, Jennings, Klupp.

INSURANCE.

Fuller, Cleaveland, Johnson, Lawrence, Parker, Hiatt, Black,
Pedersen, Kennedy, Nichols, Taylor of Kankakee, Day, Murray
of Sangamon, Sexton, Vaughey, Herrington, Kinman.

DRAINAGE.

McCartney, Worthington, Tryon, Studer, Roane, Owen, Fos-
ter, Calhoun of DeWitt, Boardman, DeBord, Cleary, West, Pratt,
Updyke, Stevens of Hancock, Templeman, Jennings.

FINANCE.

Crews, Scurlock, Studer, Jones, Walker, Pearson of McDon-
ough, Calhoun of DeWitt, Goodspeed, Kennedy, Ricks, Cald-
well, Newton, Klupp, Pratt, Varnell.

PENITENTIARY.

Collier, Calhoun of Vermilion, Hester, Black, Studer, Wendell,
Walker, McFie, Pearson of Madison, Henry, Sheridan, O'Con-
nell, Varnell, Ricks, Fellows.

MUNICIPAL AFFAIRS.

Manahan, Pedersen, Thompson of Peoria, Wendell, Littler,
Rook, Sundelius, Harper, Stimming, Gregg, Linegar, Crafts,
Clinton, Hay, Seyster.

PUBLIC BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS.

Thomas, Hawks, Owen, Coats, Fairbanks, Harper, Thornton,
Scurlock, Duffy, Varnell, Rowland, Mette, Clark, Cox, Thompson
of Cass.

HOUSE COMMITTEES. 269

COUNTIES AND TOWNSHIP ORGANIZATION.

Brown, Rogers, Thornton, Pedersen, Ewing, Hawks, Nowers,
Haines, Gregg, Welch of Kendall, Brink, Taylor of Cook, Uti-
ger, Thompson of Cass, Rountree.

LABOR AND MANUFACTURES.

Black, Wendell, Pederson, Rook, Emerson, Manahan, Honey,
Hoskinson, Thomas, O'Mara, Higgins, Sullivan of St. Clair,
Moore, Newton, O'Connell.

ELECTIONS.

Cooke, McFie, Calhoun of DeWitt, Black, Thompson of Peo-
ria, Morrison, Bethea, Coats, Haines, Linegar, O'Mara, Grear,
Kimbrough, Crafts, Quinn.

STATE AND MUNICIPAL INDEBTEDNESS.

Cleaveland, Rankin, Rogers, Nichols, Wood of DeKalb, Fos-
ter, Goodspeed, Struckman, Canniff, Murray of Scott, Seyster,
Dugan, Stevens of Hancock, Utiger, Hay.

MILITIA.

Calhoun of Vermilion, Erwin, Nowers, Lackie, Nichols, De-
Bord, Collier, Mitchell, Stimming, O'Mara, Templeman, Roun-
tree, Bez, Greathouse, Taylor of Cook.

RETRENCHMENT.

Rankin, Foster, Hammond, Hawks, Thornton, Sumner, Wen-
dell, Wood of DeKalb, Goodspeed, Dugan, Moore, Abrahams,
Downing, Stevens of Hancock, Pratt.

PRINTING.

Kennedy, Coats, Fairbanks, Emerson, Hammond, Pederson,
Lackie, Wood of DeKalb, Sundelius, O'Shea, Clark, Clinton, Up-
dyke, O'Connell, Walsh.

ROADS, HIGHWAYS AND BRIDGES.

Goodspeed, Thornton, Funk, Boardman, Hammond, Ray,
Hester, Bnnvn, ITaines, Welsh of Bureau, Felker, Caldwell, West,
Wiley, Crafts.

FISH AND GAME.

Hiatt, DeBord, Hoffman, Honey, Mathews, Kennedy, Parker.
Pearson of Madison, Hay, Symonds, Ricks, Cox, Clark, Sullivan
of St. Clair, Henry.

COMMERCE.

Johnson, Ewing, Coats, Lackie, Honey, Adams, Curtis, Rich-
ardson, Downing, Dugan, Abrahams, Symonds, Ricks.

270 HOUSE COMMITTEES.

MINES AND MINING.

Messick, Emerson, Hoskinson, Owen, Hammond, Adams, Ray,
Gallup, O'Shea, Billings, Wiley, Bez, Higgins.

FEES AND SALARIES.

Pearson of McDonough, Sumner, Boyer, McCartney, Manahan,
Mathews, Collier, Sundelius, Yancey, "Welsh of Bureau, Great-
house, Walsh, Cleary.

PUBLIC CHARITIES.

Wood of DeKalb, Nowers, Foster, Hawker, Rogers, Scurlock,
Wendell, Ewing, Yancey, Grear, Rowland, Seyster, Greathouse.

BANKS AND BANKING.

Funk, Roane, Crocker, Johnson, Cooke, Pearson of McDon-
ough, Fairbanks, Rankin, Vaughey, Caldwell, Welsh of Bureau,
Carlin, Brink.

LICENSE.

Parker, Stimming, Boardman, Crocker, Struckman, Messick,
Bez, Mette, Sheridan, Quinn, McNally.

FEDERAL RELATIONS.

Stimming, Boyer, Sumner, Crews, Ewing, Adams, Symonds,
Thompson of Cass, Cox.

CLAIMS.

Ewing, Crocker, Cleaveland, Ansley, Nowers, Fellows, Higgins
Murray of Sangamon, Crandall.

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT.

Cowperthwait, Studer, Curtis, DeBord, Parish, Cooke, Stevens
of Montgomery, Felker, McNally.

CONTINGENT EXPENSES.

Struckman, Thompson of Peoria, Black, Mitchell, Rankin,
Crandall, Stevens of Montgomery, Taylor of Cook, Starkel.

LIBRARIES.

Wood of Cook, Curtis, Ansley, Erwin, DeBord, Lodge, Row-
land, Fellows, O'Shea.

GEOLOGY AND SCIENCE.

Curtis, Parker, Ansley, Wood of Cook, Lodge, Duffy, Moore.

RULES.

The Speaker, Morrison, Mitchell, Pearson of Madison, Sexton,.
Herring-ton, Cronkrite.

HOUSE COMMITTEES. 271

MISCELLANEOUS SUBJECTS.

Rook, Ansley, Brown, Cleaveland, Abrahams, Felker, Murray
of Scott.

ENROLLED AND ENGROSSED BILLS.

Sundelius, Thomas, Mathews,.Rook, Murray of Scott, Mette,
Walsh.

TO VISIT REFORMATORY INSTITUTIONS.

Nichols, Messick, Hawks, Sullivan of Cook, Purnell.

TO VISIT EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS.

Calhoun of DeWitt, Honey, Lackie, Richardson, Stevens of
Montgomery.

TO VISIT CHARITABLE INSTITUTIONS.

Walker, Ray, Roane, Welsh of Bureau, Newton.

INDEX.

*.— Subordinate or employe, t. The county of Senators is given.

A.

PAGE.

Abrahams, Isaac 98

Adair, John M. * 14

Adams, George E., Cookt 38

Adams, Wright 99

Ainsworth, Henry A., Rock Island.. 39

Allison, Joseph F.* 90

Allen, William J.* 91

Ansley, J. M 100

Archer, Wm. B., Pike 40

Atkins, Palmer* 15

Baker, John H. 101

Barger, Simon S.* 35

Bell, Andrew J., Peoria 41

Berggren, A . W., Knox 43

Bethea, Solomon H 103

Bez, George , 103

Billings, Henry 0 104

Black, Thomas G... 106

Boardman, H. M 106

Bogue, George M 353

Boies. Edward I.* 33

Boyer, William H 107

Brainard. William Newell 354

Brewer, James M.* 36

Bridges, Frank M., Greene 43

Brinkerhoff, John J.* 31

Brink, F. E. W 108

Brown, Albert F 109

Brown, Egbert B 361

C.

Caldwell, B. F 110

Calhoun, William F Ill

Calhoun William J 113

Campbell, William J., Cook 30

Canniff, Jiimes F., (deceased since

sketch was written) 113

Capital building 5

Carlin. Walter E 114

Clark Grandison 115

Clark, Horace S., Coles 44

Cleary, Michael 116

Cleaveland, Henry C 117

Clinton. Mark J 118

Cloonan, Thomas, Cook 45

Clough, JohnH., Cook 46

Coats, JohnH 119

Collier, JohnH 120

PAGE.

Collins, LorinC.. Jr 88

Cooke, EdwardD 131

Committees— Senate 364

Committees— House 367

Condee, Leander, D., Cook 47

Cowperthwait, Edward E 133

Cox, Flemin Willet 133

Crafts, Clayton E 134

Crandall, John H 135

Crews, Seth F 136

Crocker, JohnH 127

Cronkrite, Edward L 138

Curtis, A. S 139

D.

Day, CharlesW 359

Day, William A 130

DeBord, William H 131

Dement, Henry D 13

Dow, Alia R* 93

Dorwin, Harry F.* 11

Downing, James E 133

Duffy, William M 133

Dugan, John F 134

Dugger, Everard H.* 95

Duncan, James W., LaSalle 48

E

Edwards, John C., Hamilton 49

Elliott, IsaacH 36

Emerson, William H 135

Erwin, Milo 136

Evans, Henry H., Kane 50

Ewing, Joseph H 137

F.

Fairbanks, John 138

Felker, John B 139

Fellows, Eugene J 140

Ferrell, Louis C.* 11

Feltman, Henry C 262

Fifer. Joseph W., McLean 51

Fisher, S. D 257

Fletcher, John. Hancock 52

Foster, John T 141

Frederick, James S 35

Freer, Francis A. * 359

Fuller. Charles E 14S

Funk Lafayette 143

G.

Gallup, Joseph 144

Gates, Rowell* 33

INDEX.

273

PAGE.

Ginette, Henry* . . 36

Gillham, Daniel B., Madison 53

Gillmer, Miss Lizzie* 93

Goodspeed, A. G 145

Grear, Sidney 146

Greatnouse, Francis M 147

Gregg-, James M 148

H.

Haines, Elijah M 149

Hamilton. Frank Y* 12

Hamilton, John M 9

Hamilton, Lloyd F., Sangamon 54

Hammond, Julius A 150

Harper, William H 151

Hawker, William S 152

Hawkins, Willis Brooks* 89

Hawks, James A 153

Hay, Lowry 154

Henry, Thomas N 155

Heideman, John W* 95

Henkle, William H 21

Hereley, M. B., Cook 55

Herriugton, James 156

Hester, Roberts 157

Hiatt, Luther L 158

Higgins, John 159

Hitohcock, F. B* 33

Hoffman. George L ..100

Hogan, Daniel, Pulaski 56

Honey, J. M 161

Hoskinson, William W 162

Hughes, John C.* 15

Humphrey, J. Otis* 253

Hunt, George, Edgar 57

I.

Ihorn, Louis, Monroe 58

J.

January, John W.* 92

Jenkins, David W* 95

Jennings, Jesse D 163

Johnson, William H 164

Jones, George W 29

Jones, John H 165

K.

Kelly, Maurice, Adams 59

Kennedy, Robert B 166

Kimbroiigh, Erneis R. E 167

Kinman. Edward M 168

Kirk, George, Lake 60

Klupp, Gregory A 169

Lackie, John 170

Laning, Edward, Menard 61 i

Lawrence, Joseph F 171 ;

Lemma, William A., Jackson 62 I

Lewis, Edward C 256

Linegar, David T 172 j

Littler, David T 173

Lodge, Augustus N 174 I

M.

McCartney, James 24

McCartney, Robert W 175

McClure, Wm. Finis* 26

McFie, John R 176

McLaughlin, Alonzo* 22

McNally, Thomas 177

McNary, William H., Clark 63 I

PAGE.

Mamer, Christopher, Cook 64

Manahan, John G 178

Mason, William E., Cook 65

Mathews, Trevany on L 179

Merritt, Thomas E., Marion 66

Messick, Joseph B 180

Mette, August 181

Miller, Gilbert* 25

Mitchell, EdwardS* 32

Mitchell, Thomas F 182

Moore, John W 183

Morris, William S., Pope 67

Morrison, Isaac L 184

Moses, John M 252

Munson, Noble D 256

Murray, George W . , of Scott 186

Murray, George W., of Sangamon... 185

N.

Needles, Thomas B., Washington 68

Newton, Revilo 187

Nichols, John L 188

Nowers, Thomas Jr 189

o.

O'Connell, John ...190

O'Mara, Patrick 191

O'Shea, J 192

Owen, James L 193

P.

Paddock, James H* 13

Pages— list of House, 37; Senate 97

Parker, Hilon A 194

Parrish, John L 195

Patton, Clara E. Miss* 91

Peters, John F* , 19

Pearson, John M ..197

Pearson, Isaac N ..196

Pederson, Julius 198

Pillsbury, William L*.... 24

Pratt, IsaacL 199

Purnell, James E 200

Q.

Quinn, Michael C 201

R.

Raab, Henry.... 22

Rankin, David 202

Rauch, Dr. J. H 260

Ray, Lyman B., Grundy 69

Ray, RobertB 203

Reeve, John A* 90

Rice, Isaac, Ogle 70

Bichardson, F. M 204

Ricks, John B 205

Rinehart, E. N., EfBngham 71

Roane, Charles L 206

Robbins, Moses W 35

Robinson, William H 251

Rogers, C. M 207

Rogers, Jason, Macon 72

Rook, Jesse J 208

Root, Frederick K* 32

Rountree, James M 209

Rowland, Elbert 210

Ruger, W. H., Cook 73

S.

Savage, William E* 10

Scurlock, James M 211

Secrest, Conrad, Iroquois 74

274

INDEX.

PAGE.

Seiter, Henry, St. Clah 75

Sexton, Austin 0 212

Seyster, JohnC.... 213

Shaw, Thomas M., Marshall 76

Sheridan, Redmond F 214

Shumway, B. B., Will 77

Smith, Wm. H* 93

Smith, Wm. H., R. R. & W. Com 250

Smith, James B* 96

Smith Edward* 94

Smith, John Corson 18

Smith, ElbertS* 25

Snively, Ethan A 28

Snyder, William C., Whiteside 78

Starkel, Louis C 215

Steele, Lindsay* 93

Stevens, John D 217

Stevens, George M 216

Slimming1, Theodore 218

Stone, John* 96

Strattan, Charles T 255

Struckman, George G - . 219

Studer, Henry 220

Sullivan, David 221

Sullivan, Michael A 222

Sumner, Edward B 223

Sundelius Peter 224

Sunderland, David H., Stephenson.. 79

Swigert, Charles P.. . 20

Symonds, John S 225

T.

Tanner, John R., Clay 80

Taylor, James A 227

Taylor, Daniel C 226

Templeman, Richard H 228

Thomas, John W. E 229

Thompson, H. C 230

Thompson, Samuel H 231

Thornton, James T 232

Torrance, George, Livingston 81

PAGE.

! Tryon, Charles H 233

Tubbs, Henry, Warren 82

U.

Updyke, William. . . 234

TJtiger, Robert D 235

V.

Vandeveer, Wm. T., Christian 83

Varnell, George H 236

Vaughey, Alexander 237

W.

Wallbridge, D. Edith* 16

Walker, Andrew* 17

Walker, Charles A., Macoupin 84

Walker, Henry F 238

Walsh, David W 239

Warde, ' Rev. Archie 94

Watson, Lorenzo F* 31

Welch, Andrew 240

Welsh, John H 241

Wendell, A 242

West, Simeon H 243

White, George E., Cook 85

Whiting, L. D.,iBureau 86

Wilcox, PhineasW*... 34

Wiley, Samuel C 244

Willoughby, F. A 245

Wood, Erwin E 246

Wood, Henry , 247

Woods, Joseph E*. ., 17

Worthen. Amos H. Prof 27

Worthington, Thomas, Jr 248

Wright, James S., Champaign 87

Wrigbt, Robert W* 33

Y.
Yancey, Archelaus N 249

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS-URBANA

BIOGRAPHIES OF THE STATE OFFICERS AND TH